Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire Stáit. I understand and appreciate his detailed response. However, the reality remains that despite the additional funding allocation last year, children and patients who require scoliosis or other spinal interventions are still enduring wait times exceeding four months and in some cases they have been waiting three or four years. This situation is utterly unacceptable and tonight we need to get that message back to the Minister, Deputy Donnelly.

The heartbreak, in truth, is that these young children and teenagers, despite the promises, continue to suffer in pain. As a father, one would not wish that on any other parents' children. Many wake up in the middle of the night and experience excruciating discomfort, while being unable to engage in activities which other children of their ages can enjoy.

It is very important that the funding, recruitment and that the specialists are put in place. Leah and countless others in Mayo and across the country are in desperate need of this surgery. Their lives are, effectively, put on hold as they anxiously wait for an operation that has the potential to transform their lives. The urgency of their situation cannot be overstated. I reiterate it is vital that we address this issue promptly to ensure the children and patients receive the necessary treatment without any further delays, that both their well-being and quality of life are at the centre of this matter and that we prioritise their urgent medical needs in the weeks and months ahead.

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