asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the lack of availability during the year of hearing aids for young hearing impaired children; if he will make arrangements through the National Rehabilitation Board to ensure the constant and free availability of such devices where sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Hearing Aids Availability.
127.
I am advised by the National Rehabilitation Board that it experienced some difficulties during the year in relation to the provision of hearing aids but that these difficulties have been overcome.
I am now advised by the board that there is currently no problem with the provision of hearing aids. Indeed the waiting time for hearing aids has improved as the board engaged the services of additional staff on a sessional basis and also recently filled a post of audiologist which had been vacant for some time.