I refer to the need for a consultant psychiatrist to be appointed for the deaf community in the southern region. There has been a vacancy for a consultant psychiatrist for quite some time. This information has come to us from people within the deaf community who are awaiting referral and their families. There is also an issue with the code of practice as social workers are not able to refer people to psychiatrists. In the first instance, we must have a consultant psychiatrist appointed for the deaf community within the southern region.

I thank the Deputy for raising the matter. I will liaise with the HSE on the filling of the specific post and revert to the Deputy.