Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
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2009. To ask the Minister for Health if he has paused the roll-out of the Progressing Disability Service programme in its current format and will ensure that no special school including a school (details supplied) will lose any onsite provision including speech and language therapy. [19554/21]

Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy may be aware I have been engaging with the HSE for a number of weeks now in relation to the Progressing Disability Services Programme (PDS), which I believe to be the most equitable system for children with complex disability needs. However, we must also ensure that the PDS model will continue to provide vital interdisciplinary supports to children with complex needs and who are attending Special Schools.

It is in this context that I’ve asked the HSE to pause the removal of therapists from Special Schools while further engagement takes place. It is imperative to ensure that all children with special needs are supported and services are delivered in the most efficient, fair and timely way.

In relation to specific schools, as the HSE are responsible for operational matters, I would advise families to continue to liaise with them locally as they will be able to outline local arrangements.