Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Being homeless is not a shortcoming. It is a devastating experience for a child, not a shortcoming. Being the parent a three year old child who has yet to be assessed by an autism panel is not a shortcoming; it is a terrible, devastating position in which to be. Being the parent of a young child with severe mental health difficulties and not being able to access services is not a shortcoming; it is a terrible situation for the mother and the child. These are the living realities and experiences of many families throughout the country. On International Children's Day, these are unacceptable experiences that too many children in this country are experiencing in the realm of special needs. The lack of access to physiotherapists and speech, language and occupational therapists compromises forever a child's potential. The inertia and lack of action in providing access to therapists are unbelievable, while the waiting lists are too lengthy. In referring to these failings as shortcomings the Taoiseach displays a remarkable detachment from the hard reality of families' lives across the country. Instead of the glossy brochures and the fancy launches, it is time that we got to grips with the real issues that affect too many families. They represent a very sad indictment of Government policy to date in dealing with these issues.

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