Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I refer to Carlow CDNT. As the Minister is aware, the outcome for children with complex needs is far better when they receive early diagnosis and treatment. With the right treatment at the right time, such children can grow up to lead happy, independent lives. There are children in Carlow who will never be lucky enough to achieve that, however. We have to be fair. My issue is that children need to get these services urgently. I am told the issue is staffing. The 2023 staff census was conducted in December. What are the staffing levels now? What is being done to increase those levels to serve these children? The Minister of State, Deputy Butler, knows it is important to get services to children quickly. I have had a significant number of meetings with the Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte, and the HSE. This is an urgent issue in Carlow.

See this speech in context