2835. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality her plan, timeline and cost to deliver 222 extra posts in adult multidisciplinary therapies, as promised in the action plan for disabilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter [59944/26]

The Action Plan for Disability Services 2024 – 2026, which was based on the Disability Capacity Review to 2032: “A Review of Disability Social Care Demand and Capacity Requirements up to 2032” suggests a need for 222 adult MDT posts. It must be noted, however, that actions in the Plan are subject to the annual estimates process and need to be considered with regard to budgetary limitations and priorities.

As outlined in the Action Plan, the recruitment of additional Adult MDT posts is to be informed by the completion of a detailed mapping exercise. This mapping exercise will assess how these MDT posts will interact with supports provided through Primary Care teams, identify the disciplines required, the mix of professional and assistant professional grades, and develop a plan for how these resources might be best deployed within the six Health Regions.

In 2027, the cost is estimated by the HSE to be in the region of €19m. The Department is currently engaging with the HSE on a proposal in support of additional posts and a mapping exercise.