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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 27 Jan 1999

Vol. 499 No. 1

Written Answers. - Psychiatric Services.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

630 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children when he will publish the policy document on development of services for children with attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder which he promised in correspondence dated 29 June 1998 to Deputy Deenihan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2241/99]

The development of a comprehensive child and adolescent psychiatric service in each health board area has been identified as a priority in my Department's health stretegy – Shaping a Healthier Future – and a consultant-led service is now available in each health board.

A draft policy document for the further development of child and adolescent psychiatric services has recently been completed by Dr. Paul McCarthy, Clinical Director, Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Services, Eastern Health Board and adviser to the Department of Health and Children. The draft development plan, which has been circulated to the health boards for the purpose of obtaining feedback on the contents of the draft plan, includes consideration of the specific needs of children and adolescents with attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. When the considerations of the relevant authorities have been considered, it is hoped to publish the final report at an early date. In the meantime, I have provided additional revenue resources in the current year to enable further improvements to be undertaken in the child and adolescent services in a number of health boards.
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