The programme for Government includes many commitments in regard to disabilities and the disabilities sector. Is the Tánaiste aware of the chronic crisis in terms of access by parents of young children to occupational therapy services and other services and that the HSE is issuing letters to the effect that there is a delay of up to 24 months in regard to assessments and services provision? This is happening across the spectrum but my question to the Tánaiste today is in regard to services for young people in particular. Is she aware of the crisis in this area and what does the Government propose to do to tackle it?

The Deputy will be aware that extra money was provided in the budget for services for children under five years so that they can access assessments more quickly. More money has been made available to the health budget this year. The allocation for 2017 is substantial. It is the largest health budget ever. I would expect that this will ensure reduced waiting times for assessments of the type mentioned by the Deputy. Extra money was specifically provided for occupational therapy services. Efforts are being made to recruit more speech therapists and occupational therapists. One of the problems is the difficulties being experienced in terms of recruitment to these particular professional sectors.