asked the Minister for Health whether he is aware that there are a large number of mentally deficient children between the ages of one and seven years, who also suffer from bodily ailments for whom no hospital accommodation is available in the country; and, if so, if he will state what steps his Department proposes to take to accommodate in either homes or hospitals these afflicted children who cannot be given the necessary medical attention or training required by their affliction in their own homes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Treatment of Mentally Deficient Children.
I am aware that there are a large number of mentally deficient children for whom no hospital accommodation is available in this country.
As I informed the Deputy in reply to a parliamentary question on the 12th July last, provision is made in the short-term hospital building programme for accommodation for an additional 830 children and when this accommodation is available, a considerable improvement in the present position should be effected. In addition to the projects already included in the building programme, I am also considering certain proposals for a further increase in the accommodation for mentally deficient children.