"We have been left with nowhere to turn". These are the words of Máirín Nolan, mother of seven-year-old Roxanne Kelly. Roxanne was born with a serious condition affecting her joints. She was then diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of two. Máirín says she spent years going between her doctors but has been left in limbo. There is no solution for her complex needs. In that time, Roxanne's scoliosis has worsened. Her spinal curve is now 80 degrees. The family are left to fundraise to take Roxanne to Florida, where doctors have agreed to carry out the scoliosis surgery. Roxanne is just but one child being failed. Hundreds of children are waiting. We know that 525 scoliosis operations for children were cancelled in the past four years. Nine years ago, the Tánaiste promised that no child would wait longer than four months for spinal surgery but children are still left in awful situations. When is the Tánaiste going to keep his promise?

I think the Deputy knows I gave that commitment in good faith after significant engagement with the HSE and it being given to me. While it did result in many more procedures being carried out and many more children getting their surgery, I think we have seen a number of very concerning developments in relation to this specialty. That is why I believe there needs to be that full inquiry. We have even seen as recently as last week significantly concerning clinical reports as well. I do not want to comment specifically on an individual case on the floor of the Dáil other than to say I know the Minister for Health is aware of the case of Roxanne Kelly.

She has asked officials in her Department to communicate directly with the HSE and CHI on the case and to follow up directly with the family.

Are you keeping your promise any time soon?

I have answered that.