Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)
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474. To ask the Minister for Health if she will ensure that the previously planned specialised multi-professional team for auditory processing disorder is delivered in CHO9; if there are plans to provide auditory processing services nationally; if she will provide interim pathways for access to assistive technology; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22301/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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The Minister for Health established the National Hearing Care Plan Working Group in August 2024.

The Hearing Care Plan Working Group is jointly chaired by the Department of Health and the Health Service Executive. Membership of the Working Group is drawn from relevant stakeholders, including the Irish Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists, the Irish Academy of Audiology, and the Department of Social Protection.

The Group is tasked with making recommendations around developing a holistic model of hearing care in Ireland. This work is ongoing and will consider, among other things, the appropriate linkage between public and private provision of care to maximise positive outcomes for patients.

Further information regarding the Working Group, including its Terms of Reference, can be found at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/press-releases/minister-for-health-establishes-national-hearing-care-plan-working-group/.

As this also relates to a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.