Cathy Bennett (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Today, the combined Opposition will put a motion forward in solidarity with Cara Darmody.

Today, the Government does not cherish the children of our nation. It is in breach of the law because it has denied children their rights. This Government of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the so-called Independents has denied children their rights. This has a real impact on the lives of parents and children. Assessments of need are needed, otherwise parents are out of pocket because they have to pay privately. The outcomes for their children are not optimal and the situation is getting worse. In September 2020, 5,083 children were on a list. In June 2024, there were 11,131 children on a list for AON. In September 2024, there were 12,722 children on a list. Today it is embarrassing for this Government. I do not know how Government Members can stand up and make statements in this House when more than 15,000 children are waiting for assessments of need and, by year end, there will be a projected 25,000 children waiting for assessments of need.

A task lies ahead for the Government. The united Opposition has brought a motion to this House asking the Government to clear the backlog, comply with the legal obligations and provide all children with an assessment of need within six months. What the Government must do is take emergency action and make funding available to Cara's fund; set a specific target date by which the Government aims to comply with its legal obligations; deliver a longer term, sustainable solution including an urgent workforce plan to recruit, train and retain enough staff; fund special needs services, including speech and language, physio, occupational and behavioural therapies; and provide appropriate school places for children with special needs.

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