979. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Health to detail the precise funding allocation which will be provided for the Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD programme for 2027; to provide details on when she said funding will be confirmed and communicated to the programme; and whether she would consider the introduction of multi-annual funding for the programme. [73961/26]

I am aware of recent commentary regarding the Understanding Management & Adult ADHD Programme (UMAAP) delivered by ADHD Ireland. Following direct engagement with the Chief Executive Officer of ADHD Ireland, I can clarify that there has been no reduction in Government or HSE funding for the UMAAP programme.

ADHD Ireland has confirmed that it will receive the same level of HSE funding for UMAAP in 2026 as it has received in previous years. While the organisation recently issued a fundraising appeal, I am advised that this was not the result of any reduction in State funding. Neither I, nor my Department, had been notified of concerns regarding a shortfall in the programme's approved HSE funding allocation.

I am a strong supporter of ADHD Ireland and of the vital role the UMAAP programme plays in providing information, education and peer support to adults with ADHD and their families. I previously secured recurring annual funding for the programme, and that funding has been ringfenced since 2024 in recognition of the programme's value and impact.

Based on my Office's engagement with ADHD Ireland, I understand that the organisation remains committed to the delivery of UMAAP and to supporting those who rely on its services and participants will be able to join the programme as normal in November and December. As an independent organisation, ADHD Ireland may decide to undertake additional fundraising activities to support expenditure beyond that covered by its existing funding allocation. Should the organisation seek additional State funding in the future, it may engage with the HSE through the established funding process, and any such request would be considered in the normal way.

More broadly, I have prioritised the development of public ADHD services during my time as Minister. I launched the Model of Care for Adult ADHD in 2021 and have since supported the establishment and development of the 11 multidisciplinary teams provided for under that model. Prior to the introduction of this clinical programme, there were no specialist public Adult ADHD services available in Ireland.

While significant progress has been made, demand for Adult ADHD services has greatly exceeded the levels originally projected by the National Clinical Programme. In recognition of this, I secured additional funding in Budget 2027 to strengthen medical staffing within Adult ADHD teams, helping to expand capacity and improve access to assessment and treatment.

I also recognise that further improvements are required. Work is currently progressing on an updated Adult ADHD Model of Care, which is intended to streamline referral pathways and support more timely access to assessment, diagnosis and treatment for people with ADHD.

In summary, there has been no reduction in Government or HSE funding for the UMAAP programme, and ADHD Ireland has confirmed that its HSE allocation for 2026 remains unchanged. The Government continues to support both ADHD Ireland and the wider development of ADHD services, and I remain committed to ensuring that people with ADHD can access the supports and services they need.