Ossian Smyth (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for raising this important issue. Everyone wants the best outcomes for people who are affected by eating disorders. It is clear that progress in establishing the clinical programme has not been as rapid as we wished, but this does not mean that nothing has happened or that there is no work in progress. Considerable work has been undertaken and the programme continues to be developed in line with clinical evidence and international best practice. The Minister of State, Deputy Butler, is committed to ensuring, in collaboration with relevant partners, that significant progress will be made this year and that access to appropriate treatment will continue to increase.

With the right support and interventions, people can and do recover from eating disorders. With the HSE and its partners, the Government is committed to providing and expanding the high-quality treatment and support for all of those affected by eating disorders.