HSE to hire more dentists after 'unacceptable' delay in care for autistic boy in Waterford

Seven-year-old Tiernan Power Murphy (centre) with his parents Avril (left) and Eamon who spoke out about their son's months of pain in February. Picture: Dan Linehan

Delays in dental care for an autistic boy in Waterford were “unacceptable” and dentists are now being hired to address gaps, HSE regional officer for the southeast has told the Irish Examiner.

Tiernan Power Murphy, aged 7, =was told of a 10-year wait for specialist dental care as he needs to go under general anaesthetic. After his father spoke out about his months of pain in February, the little boy was given an appointment at Cork dental school within days instead.