Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 2 May 2001

Vol. 535 No. 2

Written Answers - Speech Therapy Service.

Austin Deasy

Ceist:

102 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the problem at St. Joseph's special school, Parnell Street, Waterford due to the lack of speech and language therapy and that the South-Eastern Health Board, whose responsibility it is in the first instance, does not appear to have been able to fill five vacant posts in these areas; and if he will intervene to address the matter. [9595/01]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods):

The provision of speech and language therapy for pupils attending the school referred to by the Deputy is a matter for the South-Eastern Health Board. My Department is aware of the general difficulty being experienced by health boards in recruiting and retaining such therapists.

I have asked officials of my Department to contact the health board to discuss the matter raised by the Deputy.