Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
932. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to provide an update on her Department's plan to reform the assessment of need process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29795/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn December 2025 Government announced a series of improvements to the Assessment of Need process which will make the process more effective and efficient for children and families. This reform includes legislative reform and operational improvements to support the efficiency and effectiveness of the Assessment of Need process.
The proposed legislative changes will not remove any rights for parents to apply for an Assessment of Need for their child. They also will not alter the statutory six-month timeline set out in the Disability Act.
The General Scheme of the Disability (Amendment) Bill has been published on the Department’s website, along with an FAQ document (https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/publications/from-subject-received-size-categories-aoife-carragher-dcde-fw-dcde-website-aon-1532-1-mb/) which provides information on Assessment of Need and the proposed changes for parents and any other interested stakeholders.
The Joint Committee on Disability Matters has published its report, following pre-legislative scrutiny of the Bill, and the Department is considering its recommendations. Officials continue to work with the OPC on drafting the Bill.
It is important to recognise that legislation is only a part of the response. The Department is working with the HSE to identify further opportunities to enhance processes, improve training, and increase administrative supports for HSE Assessment Officers who are responsible for the production of assessment reports. This includes the establishment of working groups to address learning and development needs and to develop statutory guidelines.
The HSE is also implementing actions to address the wider issue of access to services and supports for children with disabilities including:
- Introduction of a Single Point of Access system by the HSE, which will make it easier for families to be referred to the right service, whether that is primary care, CDNT or mental health services. It aims to streamline referrals and reduce duplication, so children do not end up on multiple waiting lists.
- Implementation of the Autism Assessment and Intervention Pathways Protocol by the HSE. The Protocol will provide a standardised assessment process across primary care, mental health and disability services. It will be the preferred assessment route for autism.
- The creation of eleven new HSE teams, initially, to support assessment processes, including AON, providing clinical guidance and administrative supports.
Over time, these changes should lead to a noticeable reduction in the waiting times for children and their families across the country. The provision of an effective and efficient Assessment of Need system continues to be a priority for the Government.
