Pa Daly (Kerry, Sinn Fein)
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952. To ask the Minister for Health if the compensation scheme for children and families will be expanded to North Kerry for their treatment in CAMHS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52158/25]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Both I, and the Department of Health, await submission by the HSE of the Final Report by Dr. Halpin in relation to the North Kerry Lookback Review.

I am closely monitoring developments in relation to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in North Kerry, including the timeline for the completion of the Lookback Review and any evolving issues in relation to the compensation scheme. The HSE has indicated to me and the Department that the Review will be made available as soon as possible, acknowledging that necessary due diligence and related processes must be adhered to in the finalisation of the Review.

I understand that all file reviews have now been completed, and all children, young people and their families have been communicated with directly in relation to the outcome of their file review. My main concern throughout this process has been to ensure that children, young people and their families are communicated with directly in advance of the publication of the Lookback Review. I will, in conjunction with the HSE and any other agencies as appropriate, review the Final Report and will use its findings to inform next steps.

I will continue to work closely with the HSE Child and Youth Mental Health National Office to drive reform of CAMHS nationally to ensure that this key specialist service which benefits so many young people and their families each year is safe, accessible, child-centered, and delivered to the highest of standards.