Phil Prendergast (Labour)

I rise to speak about our children. I concur with the comments of Senator O'Toole in respect of the Centre for Autism. According to the Stormont Minister Caitríona Ruane, MLA, the cross-Border centre was to offer research and information, educational assessment, learning support and training and an advisory service to those suffering from autism. There were extensive debates held here last year in respect of autism and the matter was debated in both Houses. I am in contact with people whose children are affected by this awful condition which has a wide spectrum and they are no nearer solace from their suffering.

I refer to those suffering from epilepsy who must wait between 18 and 24 months to see a neurologist. I am aware that some efforts have been made, including the employment of additional neurologists. However, a waiting period of 18 to 24 months is outside the remit of anyone. There are 37,000 people greater than five years of age suffering from this condition which has a myriad of causes. I call on the Minister to make a statement on the ward closures at Crumlin hospital. I did not get a comprehensive response on the issue last week and am still receiving requests from parents of children waiting for life-saving elective surgery. What is to happen to those children? The hospital is still accepting referrals for emergency surgery from hospitals around the country, as has always been the practice, but what solace is there for those awaiting elective surgery?

Cystic fibrosis sufferers north of the Border have a ten-year better outcome prognosis than cystic fibrosis sufferers south of the Border. We need a serious debate on the issues affecting our children. I could go on about psychology services, but Senator Frances Fitzgerald covered that issue very well this morning. I have received many representations from parents whose children are awaiting a psychological assessment but insufficient staff are available to carry out these assessments. Psychologists on maternity leave are not being replaced. We are failing our children every day of the week and that will lead to a long-term bad outcome.