Assessments of need backlog
Deputy Cronin attacked delays and missing reporting on assessments of need, saying families were being forced into legal action. The Minister of State said extra funding would clear the backlog of all children waiting since last March, but could not yet give a completion date.
In March, the HSE was found to have broken the law on assessment of need. The Department's arrogance continues extending even to its own Minister, who like myself is meeting heartbroken parents day in and day out. The new figures on assessments of need released to Sinn Féin are shocking even by the usual appalling standards. Where are the annual section 13 reports that have been missing since 2014? If you do not report on assessments of need, how are you meant to improve on them for next year? This week, a constituent told me they are taking the legal route because they cannot wait any longer. Their child's future is being destroyed. Another constituent's little boy is losing the chance to speak. What is galling is that the State will be using their money - public funds - to defend the indefensible instead of providing services. It beggars belief. What is the Minister of State going to do about it?
Comment on this
I wish to reassure the Deputy and anyone looking in here that I was very fortunate in the budget to secure €11.5 million with the help of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform to ensure that everyone awaiting an assessment of need since last March will be seen. We will clear the entire backlog of assessments of need. We have provision for all.
Comment on this
When does the Minister of State hope to have it cleared?