Mr. Bernard O'Regan:

I thank the Deputy. With regard to case co-ordinators, we recognise that any supports we can provide to families as they try to navigate the system are really important. One of the pieces of work we are doing at the moment with colleagues is to develop the key worker role within the service teams so somebody will be assigned to families to play the role in question, recognising the importance of help with navigation for families.

The second thing we are doing, which concerns autism initially but which will relate to all areas of service provision, is developing the websites and information pathways for all users who need them, including families, staff and the public. The objective is to have easily accessible and clear pathways for accessing the system.

On the recruitment of staff, two points arise. First, on resources for backfilling, particularly in respect of short-term replacements, it can sometimes be a challenge for agencies just to get clarity on what resources they have available. We will continue to work to try to expedite decisions in that regard. Second, it is a challenge to fill temporary posts and backfill part-time posts when there are so many challenges in filling permanent posts. There is no doubt about that. It does impact on service continuity, unfortunately.