I refer to Carlow CDNT. As the Minister is aware, the outcome for children with complex needs is far better when they receive early diagnosis and treatment. With the right treatment at the right time, such children can grow up to lead happy, independent lives. There are children in Carlow who will never be lucky enough to achieve that, however. We have to be fair. My issue is that children need to get these services urgently. I am told the issue is staffing. The 2023 staff census was conducted in December. What are the staffing levels now? What is being done to increase those levels to serve these children? The Minister of State, Deputy Butler, knows it is important to get services to children quickly. I have had a significant number of meetings with the Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte, and the HSE. This is an urgent issue in Carlow.

As I stated, the Government is committed to enhancing services for children with disabilities. In budget 2024, €8.5 million additional investment was allocated to improve children's services, including the recruitment of additional therapy positions, the procurement of assessments from the private sector and increasing third level places.

As regards the Deputy's specific question, the 2022 CDNT staff census notes an average vacancy rate of 34% across CHOs. An overall analysis of the data from 2021 and 2022 demonstrates an increase of 11% in the number of approved posts and a 2% increase in CDNT. It is important to note the HSE has agreed to provide a special derogation for categories of staff employed across HSE and section 38 disability services under the HSE recruitment pause.

This will allow CDNTs to continue with efforts to address the staffing gaps. Recruitment is under way at pace at the moment.