Nora Owen
Question:38 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Education and Science his assessment of the availability of speech therapists to school-going pupils compared to the estimated level of need. [11834/00]
Written Answers. - Speech Therapy Service.
Denis Naughten
Question:71 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has to establish a new training school for speech therapy in view of the increasing shortage of therapists within our health services; the discussions, if any, he has had with NUI Galway in relation to this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9658/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 71 together.
The provision of speech therapy services is the responsibility of the health authorities. My Department has sought information from the health authorities concerning the current level of speech provision to school going children and the shortfall, if any, which exists in this area.
As the Deputies may be aware, an expert group was established by the Minister for Health and Children in accordance with Labour Court Recommendation 15515 to address, inter alia, the education and training of certain paramedic grades, including speech therapists. I understand that the group has now reported to my colleague, the Minister for Health and Children, who is considering its report.
It is generally accepted that there is a shortage of certain health professionals and the terms of reference for a workforce study on physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists have been agreed. As an interim measure, my officials are in discussions with the Higher Education Authority to explore any potential for immediate increases in the intake to the relevant university programmes. I can however advise Deputy Naughton that no discussions have taken place between either my Department or the Higher Education Authority and NUI Galway in relation to this matter.
I will continue to liaise with my colleague, the Minister for Health and Children, in order to ensure an adequate supply of health professionals from the education system generally and that adequate speech therapy services are made available to school-going children who require such support.