Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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1215. To ask the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to reports that new parents in Dublin 18 are still not being offered public health nurse developmental checks for their new children, despite this service being offered to new parents in other areas of Dublin; if he is taking steps to address the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55453/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Unfortunately, in some areas, staffing shortages are having an impact on the capacity of the Public Health Nursing Service to deliver routine Public Health services.

Where these shortfalls are arising, the HSE has assured the Department that they continue to prioritise and support patients who have the greatest need in the community.

I fully acknowledge the stress and frustration that this is currently causing families. I have been advised that the HSE is making every effort to recruit and fill vacant posts and I want to assure you that my Department will continue to engage with the HSE on this matter. I would encourage any parent who has a specific concern about their child’s development to contact their GP or local Public Health Nursing service.

Given that there is a service delivery element to the Deputy’s question, I have also asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly.