Almost 300 children with disabilities left waiting for vital assessments

ALMOST 300 children in Donegal with disabilities have been left waiting for their vital assessment.

Figures provided to Donegal TD Pádraig MacLochlainn reveal 284 children with disabilities in Donegal are waiting to be assessed.

Deputy MacLochlainn said the shocking figure highlights the failure to provide basic services to children most in need.

“We know that our Donegal children with disabilities have been failed again and again, whether it’s basic assessments and supports, respite care, and placements in the appropriate schools for their needs.

“Government after government have failed to get to grips with this crisis and to ensure that the necessary services with staff and buildings are in place across Donegal,” he said.

Deputy MacLochlainn said Donegal has the highest number of vacancies in the State for key support positions such as social workers, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, physiotherapists, and others.

“The Forum of parents and public representatives with the HSE that was established in late 2023, to put a focus on this, has been stood down by the HSE, but the huge gaps remain.

“Our Donegal parents of children with disabilities should not have to go on local radio or speak to local newspapers to secure what are basic and fundamental rights. They and their children deserve so much better. I repeat my appeals to the government to deliver the resources to the HSE in Donegal and for the HSE to redouble their efforts to urgently turn this around.”

Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere