andMr. Power asked the Minister for Health how many mentally retarded children under twelve years of age are still awaiting admission to suitable centres.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mentally Retarded Children.
16.
At the 31st March, 1969, there were 704 mentally handicapped children under the age of 12 years from areas outside Dublin awaiting admission to special residential centres.
The returns from the Dublin Health Authority at the same date are incomplete and are being reviewed in discussion with that authority. The latest available complete return for that area is that for 31/3/'68 when the waiting list totalled 130 for children under 12.
On 11th November last, in reply to a parliamentary question, I gave details of the plans for the provision of about 1,500 additional places for mentally handicapped children and adults.
(Cavan): Does the Minister agree that some of these children are on the waiting list for anything up to five years?
I do agree. There has been a very considerable waiting list. My predecessor and I have explained in this House that we are doing our utmost to solve this problem. We are receiving great co-operation from various religious orders. Although we have some magnificent examples of lay people undertaking this work, we rely mostly on the splendid religious orders. Whenever we receive intimation that they are willing to help us we immediately see what can be done about buildings and the necessary training and the grants. We give the religious orders every encouragement to expand their activities. Honestly, I do not think my Department can do any more than they are doing at present.
(Cavan): As the Minister concedes that many of these children are on a waiting list for up to five years and in view of the mental anguish and distress which the difficulties facing these children cause many families, will the Minister and the Government pursue something like a crash programme to provide even temporary accommodation in prefabricated buildings, in which to place these children immediately?
We are doing our utmost to deal with the problem.
(Cavan): The Minister will agree that a delay of five years at that time in the life of these children is altogether unreasonable?
First of all, you have to get the staff who are prepared to do the work.
(Cavan): This is going on for years.
I think we are doing the best we can.