Nearly 4,000 children are currently waiting for an Assessment of Need.
That's despite the introduction of the revised Standard Operation Procedure
and other measures aimed at tackling the backlog.
The Ombudsman for Children, Dr Niall Muldoon, has called for the HSE to
appear before the Oireachtas to account fully and publicly for the ongoing
problems with Assessment of Need, despite significant
commitments made to address these problems.
He said an explanation is needed from the HSE for the build-up in cases
again, and that they must outline what is being done to address it:
The Minister for Disability, Anne Rabbitte recently told the Seanad that she
was 'extremely concerned' over the increase in the number of children
waiting for assessment.
She also highlighted how complaints were ongoing from parents of children
who are waiting very long periods for services they require.
The Minister said it was 'extremely distressing' particularly in light of
the fact that early intervention is vital to securing positive outcomes for
children.
