Vol. 450 No. 2
66 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Health the reason for the delay in dealing with cases of sexually abused children at a hospital clinic (details supplied) in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4898/95]
The increase in recent years in the number of suspected cases of child sexual abuse being reported to the health boards is a matter of grave concern to us all. This continuing rise is an inevitable consequence of the greater public awareness and understanding of the horrendous problem of child sexual abuse. Major new initiatives have been undertaken by the health boards to improve and expand supports for the unfortunate victims of abuse.
In relation to the specific unit referred to by the Deputy, I understand that the normal waiting list for assessment is about four to six weeks and emergency and acute assault cases are given priority.
In an effort to bring this waiting period down, approval was recently given to the appointment of two additional social workers and a child psychologist to the hospital in question. This additional resource will go a long way towards reducing delays in assessing cases of abuse at the unit.
The majority of referrals to the unit are from the local health board and it is important to note that, while on the waiting list for assessment, all families can avail of the social work service provided by the health board. However, immediately upon referral, parents are offered an appointment for a meeting with staff of the unit within two days, and during this period a member of staff is always available to answer any queries they might have.
