Tom Brabazon (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Tá an-áthas orm labhairt ar an ábhar seo sa Teach anocht. In recent years, it has become very apparent that the State has failed many neurodivergent children. Many have been left languishing for years waiting not just for assessments but also for timely early interventions. It is often stated by the HSE and its representatives, and by the child experts, that early interventions are key to helping neurodivergent children achieve the maximum that they can achieve and reach their full potential. Unfortunately, it is rare that a child who needs an early intervention actually gets it. Many concerned parents are forced to go to expensive private providers only to find themselves out of the public system thereafter. Assessments cost in the order of €2,000. In many cases, this is simply not affordable. It is also worth noting that public representatives are dismissed by the HSE with the excuse that there are large numbers of children waiting and that it is doing its best. When the statutory waiting period of six months passes and a letter is sent by a solicitor's firm to the HSE, the children involved get the services they need. The threat of proceedings against the HSE seems to do the trick. This leads to inequity in the system. Unfortunately, that is not the end of the matter. When assessments are carried out, many parents are told that their children need physiotherapy, occupational therapy or speech and language therapy. The number of therapists is wholly insufficient and this leads to more waiting times and, accordingly, less chance of the all-important early intervention. The HSE says it is trying to recruit additional therapists but that this is proving difficult. I welcome the fact that the programme for Government will lead to increased staffing, increased support for families who need funding for private assessments and increased numbers of regional assessment hubs. I also welcome that important legislative changes will be made in this area.

I strongly urge the Minister of State to move every might and main to ensure that these children in particular are picked up early and that the key phrase of "early intervention" is actually delivered upon. We need the policy changes and resources delivered at the earliest possible moment so as not to leave these children behind who have so much to offer our society. It is imperative that we deliver on the rights of these children without any delay and that all the measures needed be front-loaded at the earliest opportunity but certainly within the lifetime of this Government. Caithfimid an rud ceart agus cóir a dhéanamh i leith na bpáistí tábhachtacha seo.

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