Mr. Bernard O'Regan:

I thank Ms O'Connor. I echo her remarks. We have a national access policy that we endeavour to implement as fully as we can to ensure there is a co-ordinated service for children and they are able to move seamlessly between the various services and supports of which they may need to avail. There are difficulties sometimes in implementing that but we have a good policy and commitment and I know there is an absolute dedication and commitment among my colleagues in primary care and in mental health to ensure that is implemented as fully as possible.

The point made by the Acting Chairman in respect of the morale of staff is well made. It is challenging. They are working in difficult circumstances. Their dedication is tested at times. All of us are working as hard as we can in our roles to make the changes that are necessary to support them as fully as possible so that they, in turn, can provide the best supports to children.