Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 30 Jan 1991

Vol. 404 No. 4

Written Answers. - Speech Therapy Services.

John Bruton

Question:

345 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Health the present position in relation to the availability of speech therapy in health boards throughout the country, with particular reference to the availability of adequate services for children suffering from sotos syndrome; and if he will outline whether salary levels for speech therapists are sufficient to attract an adequate number of applications for advertised vacancies for speech therapists.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

I am aware that difficulties are being experienced in the recruitment of speech therapists which is also the situation internationally. The situation is being examined by my Department and the number of training places available is being reviewed with the educational authority.

It is considered that the current salary scales for speech therapists are adequate. There is no evidence to suggest that they are a deterrent to recruitment.