Dr. Cathal Morgan:

I will address the Deputy's question briefly and then pass to Ms O'Neill, who will explain exactly what the preliminary team assessment is. First, in terms of the reference made by the Deputy to the National Disability Authority, we are significantly concerned with regard to ensuring we meet the requirements of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Any fair analysis will show that a fairly substantial level of resources is being put in with regard to supports and services for children and adults with disabilities, with a record level of investment this year of €2.2 billion.

I mentioned in my opening statement that we have made available a significant level of new therapy resources. More is absolutely needed, but it is needed in the context of reform. The preliminary team assessment and the standard operating procedure are absolutely not about just meeting the conditions within the Act. In other words, there are certain timeframes that must be met but it gives primacy to intervention. If it is acceptable to the Chairman, I will ask Ms O'Neill to provide a quick overview of what the assessment is and some examples of where it is working really well in community healthcare organisations.