John Perry
Question:407 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on correspondence (details supplied) in relation to the launch of the strategy plan. [7030/03]
Written Answers - Child Care Services.
The development of services for the management and treatment of attention deficit disorder-attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – ADD-ADHD – was considered by the working group on child and adolescent psychiatric services established by my Department in June 2000. In its report, March 2001, the working group stated that the prevalence of ADD-ADHD in Ireland can be estimated at somewhere between 1% and 5% of school age children, that is aged five to 15 years, which is in line with the research findings in other European countries.
The working group found that the internationally acknowledged best practice for the provision of child and adolescent psychiatric services is through the multi-disciplinary team. In 2002, additional revenue funding of €6.061milion, £4.773, was allocated to provide for the appointment of additional consultants, for the enhancement of existing consultant-led multi-disciplinary teams and towards the establishment of further teams. A further €1.64 million was allocated in 2003.
I have noted the comments contained in the correspondence referred to in Deputy Perry's parliamentary question and have requested senior officials of my Department to examine the matters contained therein and report to me as soon as possible.