Frank O’Rourke TD says new information he has obtained from the HSE demonstrates the need for additional resources for the North Kildare Network Disability Team.
He made the comments after receiving confirmation that there currently is no dietician on the disability team.
Deputy O’Rourke said, “Dieticians play an important role on disability team’s right across the country. They ensure that children with disabilities receive the support they need and have a balanced diet. For example, children with autism often have significant nutritional issues as they are unable to eat certain foods. Dieticians work with children with autism to ensure they receive the nutrition they need from alternative sources of food.
“I was surprised by the response I received from the HSE to state that there currently is no dietician working in the North Kildare disability team. This is yet another failure in the provision of services to support children with disabilities. There is already a shortage in the number of speech and language therapists and child psychologists in Kildare. It’s unacceptable that the Government continues to underfund disability support services.
“I believe there is a strong case to be made for assigning a dietician to the disability team in North Kildare. I will be raising this issue with the Minister for Disabilities Finian McGrath.”