Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 February 2026
254. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Health the measures being taken to address the long waiting times for children referred to primary care audiology services following school hearing screening; the steps being implemented to reduce delays for children who have been prioritised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15361/26]
View answerThe Health Service Executive (HSE) provides hearing tests, and if needed, hearing aids and associated maintenance, free of charge to children under the age of 18. Further information regarding the HSE's audiology services can be found at: www2.hse.ie/services/audiology/.
€750,000 has been allocated to utilise external providers to address paediatric long waiters (longer than 1 year) on the HSE community audiology waiting list. The HSE has advised that over 3,500 children will be seen under this initiative in 2026.
