Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)

As I outlined earlier, the figure for 2025 is 1,022. The list grew by a massive 470% from 2022 to 2025. These figures appear to have spiralled completely out of control during that period and there is widespread fear and frustration within the families of those affected. This cannot be allowed to continue. As I stated earlier with regard to CAMHS, we have already witnessed the fiasco in north and south Kerry. We cannot allow a repeat of this disaster. I believe the Minister of State will make every effort to ensure that these issues will be addressed in the upcoming budget, with proper staffing levels and adequate resourcing. I plead on behalf of the children of County Kerry, their parents and the children of Cork and the rest of Ireland that everything possible be done to address this very serious matter. I believe it is in the interests of all of us here in this Parliament to address this most serious issue.

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