Vol. 529 No. 1
634 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the level of speech therapy services in County Roscommon; the plans he has to provide additional resources for the provision of speech therapy in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1623/01]
636 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans he has to provide funding for a language unit in County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1625/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 634 and 636 together.
635 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the counties which are currently without a language unit for children; the plans he has to provide these counties with such a service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1624/01]
The provision of health related support services, including speech and language therapy services for children is a matter for the health boards. The development of these services is a matter for the health boards in accordance with the available funding and the priorities identified for the region.
Currently all counties, with the exception of Roscommon and Leitrim, have speech and language therapy units for children. In Leitrim, there is currently no waiting list of children who require a special speech and language therapy unit and the need for such a unit is constantly reviewed by the North Western Health Board. I understand that the Western Health Board are involved in discussions with the Department of Education and Science with regard to the development of a speech and language therapy unit in the Roscommon area.
Question No. 636 answered with Question No. 634.
