Vol. 450 No. 8
70 Mr. Lawlor asked the Minister for Health if he will consider the establishment of a pre-school speech and language unit on the north side of Dublin to complement a similar facility (details supplied) in Ballinteer on the south side of Dublin; his views on the necessity for additional funding; if his Department will liaise with the Department of Education on its provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5833/95]
Limerick East): The provision of a pre-school speech and language unit on the north side of Dublin is a matter for the Eastern Health Board. The board has increased its complement of speech therapists from 28 to 61 since 1990 in recognition of the need to develop services in this area, including special services for children.
I have made £2 million additional funding available this year for the development of services for people with physical disabilities, £700,000 of which has been allocated to the Eastern Health Board. I am currently awaiting the board's proposals for the allocation of this funding. The board has indicated that it is examining areas of greater need, including the development of occupational therapy and physiotherapy services, for the allocation of this year's funding.
With regard to the particular case raised by the Deputy, I have asked the Eastern Health Board for a report on this matter and I will be in touch with him again as soon as possible.
