Down’s syndrome - Promises broken

THE prime function of a government is to protect its citizens. In the circumstances, Labour TD Pat Rabbitte has highlighted the case of Leslie McCabe, a 16-year-old Down’s syndrome girl who has been left on the waiting list for speech therapy.

Leslie has been attending special education at St John of God’s, but because of pressure on services she has not been able to get the speech therapy she needs since October 2006.

Minister of State at the Department of Education Seán Haughey says Leslie has been referred to St John of God’s speech and language service and is on its waiting list for assessment.