Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Some of my questions have been answered so I will try not to repeat the points made by previous speakers. I note Ms McCleary's opening words that "Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression, and we as a society have a responsibility to ensure every person has this opportunity". That is so important. If nothing else, we need to take on board that ethos and make sure to deliver as many services as we can. We need to use technology as well.

We spoke about speech and language therapists. I see this issue daily. It is unacceptable and needs to be addressed. How is the lack of AT impacting the inclusion of people with disabilities? That could be in a small community, in education or maybe through employment. How can we learn about the requirements needed and how different types of disability impact people's experience with this digital product? Is funding a huge barrier to rolling out AT to assist inclusion? That was brought to my attention recently. Can the witnesses tell me about the AT grant provided to schools? Does it work? Is it accessible? Is it enough? Does it cover what we need it to? These are just questions I have been coming across recently.

I have one question that is slightly different but it is a matter I am dealing with daily. The HSE estimates that 8% of all adults, which is 300,000 people, have moderate or greater hearing loss and require support. The prevalence of hearing loss increases greatly in later life so that by the age of 70, approximately 50% of the population have acquired significant hearing loss. Senator Seery Kearney mentioned that certain phones or tablets provide apps to support hearing aid users. Are there schemes that could assist people more? I welcome what Professor MacLachlan said. People are living longer and as a society we need to address that. This is something I am working with daily now. Is there an issue between people who are applying privately and medical card holders? That is one of the biggest issues that has come across my desk recently.

I thank all the witnesses. It is very important that we listen. I highlighted the section of Ms McCleary's opening statement referring to "changes in the provision of services" and "urgent action on staffing to address the long waiting times". That is a huge issue. I have always said this and I will always say this - we need a mass media campaign to raise awareness and advocate for accessibility. That is crucial because information is the key, as is communication and working with everybody.