John Brassil (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I compliment the proposer of the motion, Deputy Ó Caoláin. It is regrettable that in dealing with such an important issue the Minister of State is sitting alone on the Government benches, with not one single member of the Government to support him.

I want to address the HSE's response to a parliamentary question about second level students transitioning to adult services. Providing notification of funding for community health organisations, CHOs, and students in May is much too late. It does not give them enough time to contact their service providers to have the proper services in place before September. I recommend notifying all parties involved 12 months in advance to ensure they will be able to provide the proper care services to ensure a smooth transition to adult services. The timelines, as well as the numbers receiving timely adult care, must be improved on. In addition, I want to bring to the Minister of State's attention three specific cases which I have asked him to examine previously. The first is that of Lisa Pollman-Daamen who is receiving part-time care in Camphill Community Dingle and seeking full-time care. Lisa's parents met the Minister of State a few weeks ago and had a positive meeting with him. Despite this, the HSE is still claiming it does not have funds available to provide full-time care. Will the Minister of State look at this case again?

The second case is that of Liam Moloney, the son of Tom and Siobhán Moloney. Liam is also in part-time care, for three to four days a week, but is in need of full-time care. Both parents also met the Minister of State last year. Unfortunately, following a constructive meeting, however, their situation has not changed.

The last family is that of James McCarthy, son of Jim and Sheila who have also met the Minister of State following my intervention last year. James is not receiving any care. Despite commitments from the HSE, nothing has happened.

Will the Minister of State look at these three specific cases as all of the families have met him? They desire action to give them the supports they deserve and need.

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