Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I reiterate that the Government remains committed to implementation of the neuro-rehabilitation strategy and the current demonstrator project for CHOs in CHO 6 and CHO 7. Delivering on this commitment, additional funding was provided in budget 2023 for neuro-rehabilitation. Funding will provide for the continued roll-out of the strategy in two more CHO areas. The exact location of these two teams is currently being considered by the HSE and a final decision will be made having regard to a range of factors. In addition, new development funding was secured for the recruitment of 23 whole-time equivalent neurology nurses. These positions will be based in neurology hospitals across the country and will provide care and support for people across a range of neurological conditions.

The Senator asked several supplementary questions. If it is okay, I will ask the Department to respond to her on them. There are recruitment constraints in the context of this issue, as is the case right across the health services. Those challenges notwithstanding, the intention is to move on these demonstrator projects as soon as possible. As regards specific timelines, I will ask the Department to revert to the Senator with a more detailed response.