3295. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Health the dietetic supports currently available to children with ARFID in the north Tipperary region, especially in light of the fact there is no dietician part of the CDNT yet; her plans to increase/improve related services in the region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55703/26]

The National Clinical Programme on Eating Disorders has progressed well with the total number of 16 eating disorder teams under the Model of Care now fully funded. This includes 11 teams now operational and a further 5 teams in recruitment and development, as per the Model of Care. The HSE spends almost €15m million on eating disorders services annually.

Over 110 dedicated eating disorder clinicians from the National Clinical Programme are now working on the teams across the country, treating people with eating disorders every day. Enhancement for specialist mental health services including eating disorders is a key priority for myself as Minister, the Government as a whole, and the Health Service Executive (HSE).

HSE data from the National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders for 2025 shows increases in activity across referrals, assessments, diagnoses and access to treatment. In 2025, over 900 referrals were received, 600 assessments were completed, with a 13% increase in the number of people starting treatment for an eating disorder. 75% of patients were assessed within eight weeks.

In addition, as Minister I secured funding from Budget 2026 for two new eating disorder teams, a CAMHS team to serve the South east, and an Adult team to serve counties Galway and Roscommon. This will assist more people with an eating disorder requiring access to specialist eating disorder mental health services.

As this relates to an operational issue, it has been forwarded to the HSE for direct reply to you.