asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the need for speech therapists in this country; and what facilities are available here for training in this subject.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Speech Therapy.
6.
I am aware that there is a need for more speech therapists. To meet this need the Dublin College of Speech Therapy was established under the auspices of the National Rehabilitation Board in October, 1969, to train speech therapists for employment in the Health Services throughout the country. It is expected that the first class, of 14, will complete their training next year and will then be available to take up duty. Similar groups of trained students should be available in the succeeding years.
Can the Minister say, for instance, how can a person in Cavan with a speech defect avail of the services of a speech therapist?
Arrangements would have to be made.
I know of a case in Cavan——
The Deputy will have to ask me a question about that.