Children in South-west at huge health service disadvantage

Where a child lives is dramatically impacting on how quickly they receive vital public health services, with children in Cork and Kerry at a serious disadvantage.

The problem is particularly acute in Cork City in relation to assessments of needs (AONs), which determine a child’s disability and the level of service they need.

As of the end of April, 1,718 assessments were overdue, primarily in Cork City, despite the HSE’s statutory duty to complete AONs within six months of receiving an application.