HSE acknowledges frustration of parents of special needs children

In a statement this afternoon, the HSE acknowledged todays protest in Cork, and the frustration felt by parents.

The Cork Kerry Community Healthcare Organisation accepted a petition from protesters and say they are considering its contents.

However the HSE say waiting times for assessment and treatment of speech and language therapy in Cork have addressed with 7 additional therapists employed last year.

They say a new initiative has successfully targeted children waiting more than 4 months for an initial assessment, and those waiting more than 8 months for initial and further therapy.

The statement adds that there has been a significant increase in application for assessment of needs in the Cork region, and as a result timelines set down in the Disability act are not currently being met.

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