asked the Minister for Health whether his attention has been drawn to the speech made by Dr. John P.A. Ryan on 2nd May in which he emphasised the necessity of early diagnosis of mental handicap in children; and whether he will investigate the possibility, whether through the schools medical service or otherwise, of improving the present position with regard to the early diagnosis of such cases.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mental Handicap in Children.
3.
I have read a report of the address referred to by the Deputy.
I fully realise the importance of early diagnosis of mental handicap and, in fact, the terms of reference of the Commission of Inquiry on Mental Handicap which I established include the following:—
"To examine and report on—
..........................................
(b) the manner and respects in which the existing facilities and services for the diagnosis and ascertainment of mental handicap ...require to be improved and/ or augmented".
The Commission held its first meeting on 20th February, 1961, and has been meeting regularly since. Dr. Ryan is a member of the Commission.