Local parents call for better services and an end to waiting lists for children

By Mary Dennehy

MORE than 100 parents took to the streets of Tallaght on Monday calling for better services and an end to waiting lists for all children and young adults with disabilities – with local families affected by the issue invited to attend a public meeting with Minister Katherine Zappone on April 26.

The March for our Children event was organised by the Enough is Enough campaign which, spearheaded by three local mothers, sparked 17 simultaneous marches across the country between 10am and 12pm on Monday, April 3.

The silent protest in Tallaght descended on Chamber House, the HSE community services office, in an attempt to highlight “the absence” of services within the community – and to encourage the health service and the Minister for Health, Simon Harris TD, to ensure that intervention services are accessible and being delivered in communities right across the country.

After leaving Chamber House, the demonstration travelled to Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Katherine Zappone TD’s office in Tallaght Village – where a petition with 7,000 signatures was handed over.

Minister Zappone was not present on the day however, one of her representatives accepted the petition on her behalf and informed parents that the Minister would hold a public meeting.

A spokesperson for Minister Zappone told The Echo: “Minister Zappone knows the difficulties faced by families and is handing the petition from Tallaght to the Health Minister for urgent attention.

“As a Dublin South West Independent TD, the Minister has worked with local families to highlight the need for improved supports for children with disabilities.

“In the area of autism our efforts have delivered some success – two vital posts at Chamber House have been filled, with an AON Officer and liaison officer now working with families.”

The spokesperson added: “Of course more must be done and Minister Zappone is holding a public meeting on April 26.

“The meeting will address Chamber House Services and the delays in critical services.”

The Echo has been told that further information on the meeting is available through the Minister’s constituency office.

Speaking with The Echo outside Minister Zappone’s office, Tallaght resident Sharon Condren Melia, who started Enough is Enough with Rathcoole parent Sarah Jane Clarke and Clondalkin resident Vanessa Murphy, said: “There needs to be a move with these intervention services.

“I’ve three children on the spectrum and not one of them is getting any type of service.

“I would love for the next family who ends up in my position to be told you’re child has this and here’s your appointment, here’s your services and here’s how we’re going to help you.

“Not just hand you a piece of paper, shatter your world and not do anything about it.”

The group also dropped by Sinn Fein TD Sean Crowe’s office, with the local deputy stating: “Parents of children with disabilities and impairments should not have to depend on TDs or Government Ministers to get supports and services.

“In an inclusive society and an Ireland of equals these supports and services should be their right.”

The Echo put a number of questions to the HSE but a reply was not received in time for print.

Contact Katherine Zappone’s constituency office on 45 Main Street Tallaght by calling 4271072 or emailing Claire.murphy@oireachtas.ie for further information or to register your interest in the public meeting on April 26 at 5pm.