Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

When looking at the alternatives, the Deputy is right about the AAC devices. That is why we funded AsIAm this year to purchase more assistive technology devices. The HSE and the Department of Education are purchasing in whole. AsIAm will purchase the guts of 600 devices to be made available to children. Not only will they be made available to children, but they will also be enhanced with speech and language as part and parcel of it.

The Deputy and I are very aware of the trikes. It is important this evening to acknowledge the role of the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan. When I could not get funding initially, he co-funded with me to ensure I could have trikes. Trikes provide alternative occupational therapy. I know they are available in Dundalk cycling club. They are phenomenal and allow people to experience greenways and walkways while also getting into the mobility piece.

The last piece is the role of the assistant therapist. We should focus on that in the next part of the Deputy's contribution.

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