'Unacceptable': Over 2,300 children waiting for eye care in South Tipperary

Tipperary Independent TD Mattie McGrath has today renewed his call for urgent action to address the crisis in children’s ophthalmology services in South Tipperary, following confirmation that over 2,300 children are currently waiting for treatment or triage.

According to the latest figures, 1,783 children are awaiting ophthalmology treatment, with a further 541 referrals from Public Health Nurses still awaiting triage, bringing the total to a staggering 2,324.

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“This is a disgraceful situation. We are talking about thousands of children whose eyesight and development are being jeopardized by these delays and a shocking lack of urgency from the HSE,” said Deputy McGrath.

While the HSE appointed a Consultant Ophthalmologist in July, the candidate later declined the post due to personal circumstances. A new recruitment campaign has since commenced, with the application deadline closing last week.

However, Deputy McGrath has strongly criticised the decision to advertise the role as a temporary position.

“This post should have been filled months ago. Instead, it’s being advertised as a temporary position, potentially making it an unattractive position. The HSE has serious questions to answer. It’s obvious that good candidates will choose permanent roles over temporary ones, and South Tipperary is once again being treated as the poor relation.”

Deputy McGrath also raised concerns about the continued absence of a dedicated Optometrist position in the region.

“The lack of an Optometrist is compounding the problem. Early screening and basic assessments are being missed, and children are slipping through the cracks. I’ve been informed that a business case for an Optometrist was submitted to HSE management at the same time as the Consultant post, yet there’s been no progress. I’ve repeatedly asked the HSE for an update, but answers are not forthcoming.”

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The HSE has advised that families can access services via University Hospital Waterford, but Deputy McGrath says this is not a sustainable solution.

“Saying families can be seen in Waterford is the HSE’s way of avoiding accountability, it’s a diversion. Parents are telling me they can’t get timely appointments there and are being forced to spend hundreds of Euro on private consultations, treatments, and glasses.”

Deputy McGrath has again called on the Minister for Health and HSE Management to intervene directly, expedite the appointment process, and ensure both Consultant and Optometrist roles are filled without further delay.

“Our children deserve better. Their sight is not negotiable,” concluded Deputy McGrath