Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy has summed it up there. When one has a child living in pain every day, it is very difficult for parents. As stated, the care needs of people affected by EB are currently being treated on the basis of a two-centre approach delivered through Children's Health Ireland and St. James's Hospital. I take on board what the Deputy said in that the outreach nurse is available for Children's Health Ireland, but not for the adults. On the request for funding for a clinical psychologist, which is really important, the HSE service plan is currently being configured. We support various NGOs with over €100 million from the mental health budget, and I will certainly take a look at this. Young people and adults who are living with this difficult, lifelong genetic condition, which causes fragile and blistering skins, have it really difficult on a daily basis. They are dealing with it every day of the week, and it can be very difficult. I will bring the Deputy's concerns back to the Minister, and I will also look at the issues she has raised myself.

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