Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 November 2019
106. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health his plans to clear the long waiting lists in many areas nationwide for additional needs assessments for children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48848/19]
View answer124. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health his plans to recruit more occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists to properly staff early intervention and school age assessment teams for children with additional needs. [48849/19]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 106 and 124 together.
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 questions relate to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.
