Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael)
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I am 100% behind Ms Connolly on that. There has to be an evidence base for any programme. That is where we are bringing the academics in as well. Things like the randomised clinical trials are crucial because they will drive policy and we can drive it within our Departments if we can show the benefits and impacts in an evidence-based way.

My next question is for Dr. Muldoon. The Chair and Senator Mullen visited Dorset and viewed the model. A report is being written on that now and will be given to us for information. Dr. Muldoon noted the reduction in the number of children coming off the CAMHS waiting list. He mentioned the realisation that maybe that was not the place for them or that they needed early intervention supports. The committee heard about all the different supports available for online intervention in school, such as the smarter moves programme or having access to online supports. Even that was a textline number - 50808 - and it was stated how important that is for early intervention.

It is crucial we have both the Department of Health and the Department of Education involved in these types of programmes and that that would be effective in bringing children off that waiting list and ensuring they get the early intervention they need. Is there any other element of early intervention that would be beneficial?