Seán Ryan
Question:66 Mr. Ryan asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the present position with regard to community care speech therapists services at primary school level; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Speech Therapist Services.
Ivor Callely
Question:195 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the shortage of available speech therapists and the huge need and demand for the service; and if he will outline the way in which he intends to address this matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 195 together.
I am concerned at the adequacy of the level of speech therapy provision in certain areas of the country.
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 am at present finalising the establishment of a Review Group to make recommendations for the expansion and improvement of services for people with a physical disability within the framework of the commitments in relation to the physically disabled contained in the Programme for Economic and Social Progress. The provision of speech therapy services will be considered in that context.