Cullinane blasts mental health waiting lists
Figures obtained by RTÉ show 28,000 children are currently waiting to see a primary care psychologist. Stock Image.
Waterford TD and Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Health David Cullinane said “families are being failed” by the Government in the wake of newly obtained figures by RTÉ highlighting waiting lists for children’s mental health services.
RTÉ’s report showed some children in Northwest Dublin were forced to wait up to 13 years for access to mental health services.
“This is utterly unacceptable as we know that early intervention is critical to a child’s development and wellbeing,” Deputy Cullinane said.
“Behind every statistic is a child who is struggling with anxiety, learning difficulties, or developmental challenges and parents who are reaching out for help and support.
“The consequences of these delays are long-term and profound. Children’s needs do not disappear because the State doesn’t have enough staff, they simply get worse as children languish on years long waiting lists.”
RTÉ’s report detailed the experiences of a mother of an autistic child who spent five years on a Primary Care waiting list but could not gain access to a psychologist.
The Primary Care service is the first port of call after a child displays mild to moderate mental health issues. The child in question later availed of CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services).
Cullinane said that families cannot feel assured seeking care in the private sector, given that private practitioners can operate without statutory regulation.
“We need a fully staffed and regulated, public psychological service not long waiting lists, under-resourced teams, and unregulated private assessments.
Waterford Fianna Fáil TD and Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler is yet to respond to requests for comment from the Waterford News & Star.
