Edward Nealon
Question:94 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the serious problems in obtaining a speech therapy service for children; and if he will outline his proposals to deal with this matter.
Written Answers. - Speech Therapy Service.
I am aware that there is concern about the level of speech therapy provision in certain areas of the country. It is a matter for each service agency to assess the need for different categories of health personnel in accordance with their identified priorities.
The Programme for Economic and Social Progress indicates that priority will be given to the expansion of paramedical services, including speech therapy services, for people with disabilities. I intend to establish a group to review services for people with physical disabilities to make recommendations to me on how the commitments contained in the programme can be realised. The provision of speech therapy will be considered in that context.