Erin McGreehan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chairman. I am in Leinster House. It is always great to see the Minister of State coming before the committee. The change that has been made since she came into office is phenomenal. Her unapologetic attitude when it comes to advocating for people with disabilities has been incredible. I highlight the reduction of 78% in the waiting list during a global pandemic, which she mentioned in her opening statement. Such a reduction is highly unusual in the health service.

I refer to the timeline for the review of the standard operating procedure, SOP. The court case was mentioned but I know the Minister of State cannot speak about that. I refer to the clinical need that is designed under the SOP. How is the Department going to react if a judge with a law background decides on a medical assessment? There may be an issue in that regard. I may be wrong.

The Minister of State said that three out of nine of the CHOs have cleared their backlogs. How positive an impact has that had on the delivery of therapies and treatment, as opposed to assessment? All present know assessment is one thing but therapies are the next step.

I am also seeking an update on the autism innovation strategy. It is so welcome. How does that fit in with regard to how we fix unmet needs?