Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, to discuss this important issue. My query relates to the number of autism spectrum disorder, ASD, assessments of need being carried out in the Limerick, Clare and Tipperary areas. I understand there is a significant backlog in this regard. I was recently contacted by a family in north Tipperary who, when they applied for a place for their child at a school's autism unit, were informed they needed a full ASD report for that child before their application would be considered. Unfortunately, the parents have now been told the facility is full. The child's assessment was to be done in August, which would have provided eligibility for enrolment in September, but because of the backlog and waiting list, they have been informed their child will not be assessed until Christmas.I spoke to the relevant people in the HSE and in the different Departments, to the school principal and to the family, and I have kept in regular contact with all of them. My understanding is that if people are out sick or on maternity leave they are not being replaced and this is causing a problem. I am not saying people cannot be out ill or for some other reason but in the context of these necessary appointments, people should be replaced to deal with these valid cases. The school principal told me there were six places in the school but they are now full. I was told this child will be accommodated for next year but that means the child has to wait for another year. I have dealt with a number of similar cases. There needs to be a review of what happens with assessments when a person in that unit is out on leave for the long term. Also, the lines of communication with the families need to be kept open. This family received a communication on the week in August they expected to be called for their child's assessment indicating that it would be Christmas before the child would be called. That is quite a long wait for the child. It is a serious issue for the families concerned. My understanding from my communication with the HSE is that there is an unprecedented number of applications this year with respect to autism spectrum disorder, ASD, seeking an assessment of need. I would like hear what the Minister has to say and any solutions he has for resolving this problem.