David Cullinane (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State's response and the decision to prioritise Waterford city and county once the 120 new posts have been delivered. I am concerned, however, that 22 applications have been on hand for more than six months and their completion is long overdue. Perhaps some of the cases I cited are among this group of 22. If I may, I will forward to the Minister of State e-mails I have received asking questions and expressing concern as they provide evidence of the heartbreaking struggle of parents. They would also allow her to make up her mind as to whether children are receiving the treatment they need while assessments are ongoing. From my contact with parents, including e-mails I have received, it is clear that this is not always the case on the ground.

I do not wish to make a political football of this issue. My only objective is to ensure the necessary capacity and posts are in place and the children in question receive the supports they need. When people contact with me to tell me these types of stories I have a duty, as a public representative, to raise the issues directly with the relevant Minister.

I appeal to the Minister of State to consider the case of the centre in Lady Lane, Waterford, which provides a fantastic service for children. My view, which is one shared by many parents, is that the building in which the service is located is not fit for purpose and a new, state-of-the-art facility is required. I am informed that children receive early intervention and support until the age of six years, at which point they lose their supports. A holistic review of services is required and the centre in Waterford should be replaced with a state-of-the-art facility to ensure children have all the resources they need in the best possible setting.