Services for People with Disabilities

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 May 2017

Tuesday, 30 May 2017

Questions (500)

Michael Moynihan

Question:

500. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Health the steps he will take to address the waiting lists in County Cork for speech and language, CAMHS and assessment of need to determine the scale of a child's disability; if his attention has been drawn to the recent survey carried out by a charity (details supplied) which shows that children in County Cork are waiting significantly longer than those in other parts of the country for these services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25960/17]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.