Grace Boland (Dublin Fingal West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish the Minister, Deputy Foley, well in her new portfolio. I thank the Ministers of State for coming to the Chamber today.

Tackling the deficiencies in disability services is a significant challenge. It is imperative that all of us, as elected representatives, collaborate with the Minister and Ministers of State to bring about much-needed transformation in disability services. In the short time I have, I will focus on my constituency of Dublin Fingal West, which falls under CHO 9. I highlight that the two CDNTs which my constituents are referred to, Balbriggan and Swords, have, by some distance, the longest waiting lists in CHO 9, with a combined figure of 1,045 children awaiting assessment. As their TD, I feel a profound duty to advocate, not only for the children who are awaiting assessment, but also for their families and those working in the Balbriggan and Swords CDNTs. Children and their families have been waiting for up to four years for an initial assessment, with no indication as to when they might receive the essential supports and therapies that they so desperately need. This delay not only exacerbates the children's issues due to a lack of timely intervention but also creates extreme stress and worry for their families, as well as leading to a challenging environment for the dedicated professionals working in both the Balbriggan and Swords CDNTs. Without access to a CDNT, families are being forced to search for private supports and therapies. This can compound the stress and anxiety felt by parents who are trying to support their disabled child, not to mention the financial impact it has on their family.

Balbriggan is the youngest large town in Ireland, and Fingal West is rapidly growing. The demand for CDNT services will continue to intensify as the population increases. Balbriggan and Swords CDNTs need to be prioritised, the open vacancies fully filled and the waiting list reduced. Families and children have endured systemic failures for far too long. The time for change is now. I welcome any opportunity to support the Ministers to deliver the disability services which are needed.

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