Courts / Ireland / Report

Refusal to allow boy seek services outside of home area 'flies in face of common sense', court told

Summary

The family of a two‑year‑old boy with developmental delay and suspected autism has brought a High Court challenge against the HSE's refusal to allow him to access health services outside his designated functional area. The boy is non‑verbal, has poor social skills, and struggles with walking and holding objects. He requires psychological, occupational, speech and language, and physiotherapy as soon as possible. The family was informed in December 2021 that services would not begin until January 2023, a delay they say could have permanent adverse effects. Under the 2021 Disability Regulations, the family applied for services outside the boy's area, arguing that waiting lists elsewhere might be shorter, but the HSE rejected the application in March, citing a lack of exceptional circumstances.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Refusal to allow boy seek services outside of home area 'flies in face of common sense', court told. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• December 2021 Other
• January 2023 Other
• 2022-04-05 Publication

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

Read the original CNI report