Shocking: No occupational therapists for Laois children, says TD

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TD alleges Laois children with additional needs without OTs and dietitians

A Laois TD has alleged that there are currently no occupational therapists (OTs) and dietitians employed in County Laois, despite an overwhelming demand for both roles.

Fianna Fáil Deputy Sean Fleming has alleged that following correspondence with Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, the Minister confirmed that these roles are currently vacant.

The Deputy has slammed this as 'a totally unacceptable situation'.

"This is a disgrace and is totally unfair on the children and young people and their families," Deputy Fleming said.

"I have been in contact with families who are awaiting a long time to receive therapies and the fact that there is nobody employed in the county to do this work is adding further to peoples upset for their children," he argued.

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"I have raised this matter directly with the Minister for Health demanding that these posts be filled immediately and be given top priority and that Laois is provided with these services for children and young persons as a matter of urgent priority.

"I was shocked to receive a reply from the Minister in relation to an individual case where the lack of these therapists was confirmed to me," Deputy Fleming highlighted.

"I will not let it go until the positions are filled because children and young people in the County urgently need and are entitled to these services," he finished.

The HSE has been contacted for comment.

In November of 2024, the Leinster Express / Laois Live reported that three special schools in the Midlands had been excluded from a Government first pilot programme to employ OTs in schools.

There are 130 special schools in Ireland, and of the 16 places available on the programme, eight are in Dublin, six are in Cork, and two schools are in Galway.

St. Francis Special School, Portlaoise, Kolbe Special School, Portlaoise and Offaly School for Special Education, Tullamore, have yet to be included within this programme.