Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:135 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a speech therapist will be appointed at the School for the Deaf, Tralee, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6193/01]
Written Answers. - Speech Therapy Service.
The provision of health related services, including speech and language therapy, to people with physical and sensory disabilities is a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the chief executive officer of the Southern Health Board, with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.
I am aware that there are staff shortages in the therapy grades in the health service. In order to address these shortages, my Department has engaged Dr. Peter Bacon and Associates to undertake a workforce planning study to report on the prospective supply and demand for a number of therapy grades, including speech and language therapists. This report is expected within the coming weeks.