Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Under the revised standard operating procedure for assessment of need, a preliminary team assessment will identify initial interventions and will be followed by any further assessments that may be required. The preliminary team assessment will provide sufficient information to determine whether a child meets the definition of "disability" under the 2005 Act. A child who meets the definition will receive a service statement outlining the services to be provided and the timeline for those services. Children with less complex needs who do not meet the definition or do not have a disability can continue to access services through primary care. A child will receive initial interventions while waiting further assessment if this is deemed necessary following the preliminary team assessment. This arrangement, which will deliver best practice standards of early intervention for children, was not previously available. I emphasise that we need to invest in these services if we are to develop them.

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