Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

I thank Senator Terry for giving me the opportunity to discuss waiting times at St. Louise's assessment and treatment service at Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin. I am in a position to respond to the matters raised by the Senator.

St. Louise's unit is one of two units in the eastern region where children are assessed and treated following an allegation of sexual abuse. Children may be referred from a variety of sources, including general practitioners, social work services and accident and emergency departments. The Eastern Regional Health Authority is very aware of the need for services in the assessment and treatment of child abuse to be as responsive and integrated as possible. In any case of suspected child abuse, the priority is child protection, followed by referral for appropriate assessment and therapy.

Referrals to St. Louise's assessment team are prioritised on a case by case basis with special consideration being given to children aged five and under, alleged assaults which have taken place within the last 72 hours and children who present in extreme distress. These cases are placed on a priority waiting list. Due to the number of referrals to the unit which meet these criteria, the waiting time is approximately three to four months. Referrals which do not meet these criteria have an approximate waiting time of seven months. There are currently 44 referrals awaiting assessment where all information has been received and another 24 referrals are being processed. These are awaiting further information such as case conference reports, medical reports, Garda reports and health board reports.

Referrals to the therapy team are also prioritised on a case by case basis depending on clinical needs. Priority is given to children in extreme distress, presenting as mood disturbance or suicidal ideation, and to victims of acute assault. There are ten cases on the waiting list and another 11 are being processed which have an approximate waiting time of five months.