Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Alexander is a ten-year-old boy in County Louth. He is autistic, non-verbal and he has an intellectual disability and development delays. His parents very much welcome the statement of the Taoiseach on bringing real and meaningful reform to services for people with disabilities. They believe him and I believe him too. It is the first time he has been made aware of this. The problem is this family sought respite first in 2022. It was discussed by the HSE in late November 2022 and approved by the board. 2022 and 2023 passed. It is now 2024. What is happening? They got a letter saying they are wait-listed for respite for mid- to late 2025. That is an appalling vista for the young child whose development is severely impacted by this. His parents are extremely worried they cannot get a weekend, day or hour of respite. I appreciate the Taoiseach's commitment to this issue but it is essential that this case be dealt with now. The parents cannot wait, nor can the child.

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