Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Today marks World Prematurity Day. Every year, more than 4,000 babies are born pre-term in Ireland. After much negotiation, the Government included a commitment in the programme for Government in respect of early intervention and prevention services for children. In the programme, the Government also promises to commence an in-depth review of the variation in waiting lists across the country. The programme for Government contains a further promise to introduce a new in-school speech and language service, creating stronger links between parents, teachers and speech and language therapists.

In Tipperary, many children have to wait up to 18 months for an assessment of needs before they get any treatment. This is not the fault of the wonderful early intervention teams but is down to the lack of resources. Where are we in terms of the fulfilment of this commitment in the programme for Government and in ensuring that all pre-term babies and children with special needs receive the support they require to meet their full potential?

See this speech in context