Sorca Clarke TD

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the status of the DEIS plus appeal by a school (details supplied); when this school can expect to be notified of the outcome; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will review the staffing allocation for a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason for the decision to withdraw the local bargaining agreement for special needs assistants; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current level of funding provided for youth work services in 2026; if additional funding will be allocated in Budget 2027 to support the expansion of youth services and address rising demand; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if she will establish a national movement neurophysiology laboratory at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital to provide diagnostic and treatment support for patients with dystonia, tremor, myoclonus and functional neurological disorders; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if funding will be provided to establish a movement neurophysiology laboratory at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if she is aware that movement neurophysiology services for patients with dystonia and other movement disorders are currently available only in the private sector; the plans that exist to ensure equitable access to these services through the public health system; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to integrate movement neurophysiology into the National Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Service at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital to improve patient selection, reduce unnecessary surgery and maximise the efficient use of DBS resources; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health whether she has assessed the clinical and cost-effectiveness of establishing a national movement neurophysiology laboratory at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital; if so, the outcome of that assessment; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the measures being taken to reduce waiting times for assessment and treatment of patients with dystonia; and whether the establishment of a national movement neurophysiology laboratory at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital forms part of those plans.

Asked the Minister for Health if the HSE or the relevant environmental health authorities have carried out an assessment of potential public health risks arising from the condition of a building (details supplied) in County Longford; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide an update on the DEIS Plus appeal by a school (details supplied); when this school can expect to be notified of the outcome; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the preparations being made to ensure that mental health will be a priority during Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union; whether Ireland intends to promote EU-wide cooperation on improving access to mental health services, suicide prevention, youth mental health, and workforce wellbeing; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if she will provide details of any assessment undertaken by her Department on extending publicly funded access to the shingles vaccine for cancer patients and other immunocompromised individuals; whether such a proposal has been considered following recommendations from the National Immunisation Advisory Committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated annual cost of providing the shingles vaccine free-of-charge to cancer patients who are clinically advised to receive it; whether this option has been examined by her Department; and if she will publish any cost-benefit analysis undertaken.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of cancer patients who have received financial assistance from the State towards the cost of the shingles vaccine in each of the past five years; and the supports currently available to patients who are advised by their consultant to receive the vaccine but cannot afford it.

Asked the Minister for Health whether consideration has been given to including the shingles vaccine on the list of medicines and treatments available without charge to eligible cancer patients under publicly funded cancer care, where the vaccine is clinically indicated to reduce the risk of complications arising during treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if she has considered the establishment of a dedicated redress scheme for survivors of abuse and mistreatment in former State-run and State-funded psychiatric institutions; if she has received any proposals in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if she will commit to issuing a formal State apology to survivors who experienced abuse, neglect, coercive practices and inhumane treatment while resident in former psychiatric institutions, in recognition of the State's role in their suffering; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health whether she will establish an independent statutory inquiry into historical abuse and systemic failings within psychiatric institutions and with meaningful survivor participation in its design and operation; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if she has met with, or intends to meet with, survivors of psychiatric institutions to discuss their calls for justice; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the expected opening date for each of the promised perinatal mother and baby units; the current status of each project; whether any delays have arisen; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health whether there will be a full inquiry and survivor centred redress for those who were abused in Ireland’s psychiatric institutions; if not, the reasons; whether a timeline has been set for any such inquiry; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason for the delay in approving the application for the improvement work in lieu of local authority housing scheme (IWILS) on behalf of a person (details supplied).

Asked the Minister for Defence the names of specialist military courses that Air Corps personnel went to Canada given those specialist military courses are not available within the State in the years of 2025 and to-date in 2026; and the names of those courses and duration of each, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Transport the number of full-time heavy vehicle mechanics employed by Bus Éireann as of 29 June 2026; if he will provide the corresponding figures in 2023, in tabular form.

Asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance when he last spoke formally with the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of WTE psychologists employed by national educational psychological services as of 29 June 2026; if she will provide the same figures for the corresponding period in 2023, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the measures in place to ensure full wheelchair accessibility in all primary and post-primary schools; the number of schools not fully compliant with accessibility standards; the supports available for schools requiring infrastructural upgrades to improve access for wheelchair users; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection if there are instances in which a person who availed of the back to work enterprise allowance for an upcycle business, but whose business was forced to close for 18 to 24 months due to Covid can avail of the scheme again before the five year waiting period; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of people engaged with the cost of disability consultation via the telephone service where an individual with sight loss or other disabilities that limits their ability to utilise the alternative methods of providing feedback were able to engage with the process; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of Garda public order unit vans allocated to each Garda division as of 29 June 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the estimated cost in 2027 if 1,250 new recruit Gardaí were recruited.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of standard motorcycle courses held for Gardaí within Mayo-Roscommon and Longford division in 2025 and to-date in 2026; the number of Gardaí that applied for each of those courses; and the number of places that were available in each of those courses, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the estimated cost in 2027 if an extra 475,000 extra personal assistant hours were provided.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the estimated cost in 2027 if an extra 200,000 extra home support hours were provided.

Asked the Minister for Health the additional funding allocated to adult mental health services in County Cavan in each of the past three years; and the extent to which this funding has resulted in increased staffing and service capacity.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of ambulatory assessment spaces currently within the accident and emergency department of Mullingar Regional Hospital.

Asked the Minister for Health the WTE staff by job title posts currently filled at regional endometriosis services at Coombe Hospital, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the level of investment in mental health infrastructure in County Kilkenny for each of the years from 2023 to 2025 and to date in 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE consultant haematologists based at St. James's Hospital as of 29 June 2026; if she will provide the same figures as of 1 July 2023, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the reason that a person (details supplied), who is a medical card holder and is pre diabetic, has been refused a drug prescribed by their GP; the financial supports that are available to this person in accessing this drug; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health her plans on establishing an independent inquiry into persons who were wrongly incarcerated and unlawfully detained in psychiatric hospitals; if not, the reasons; and whether a timeline has been set for any such inquiry.

Asked the Minister for Health the actions the Government is taking to prevent online forums or websites that encourage or facilitate suicide from being accessed in Ireland; whether legislative changes are being considered to prohibit such platforms; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the number of data centres that are currently planned, proposed or awaiting approval in the context of the annual emissions generated by data centres; the location of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if her attention has been drawn to the lack of out-of-hours emergency dental services at weekends in Mullingar; whether she will consider introducing a weekend emergency dental service, including access to urgent dental treatment and X-rays; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether Ireland has adopted a position on the proposed REACH restriction on lead ammunition; whether Ireland will support, oppose or seek amendments to the proposal at the next REACH Committee meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the Minister with responsibility for determining Ireland's voting position on the proposed REACH restriction on lead ammunition and the instructions that have been issued to Ireland's representative on the REACH Committee.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will publish the latest draft text of the proposed REACH restriction on lead ammunition; if he will publish Ireland's proposed voting position and any amendments Ireland intends to support or propose; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the recent engagements her Department has had with trade unions and representative bodies regarding the pay and employment conditions of school secretaries; the outstanding issues that remain to be resolved; the timeline for further improvements in terms and conditions; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the progress that has been made in providing school secretaries with improved pay, terms and conditions of employment; whether discussions or negotiations have taken place with representative bodies and trade unions on this matter; the outcome of any such discussions; the further measures under consideration by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the last inactive status recorded on the Rásaíocht Con Éireann Traceability System for all dogs subject to traceability on this system in 2021 (details supplied); the breakdown of the number, by active, inactive, exported and reported dead; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of individual greyhound pups born in Ireland during the period 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025; the breakdown of racing and coursing pups and the number of litters born in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of pelvic floor physiotherapists currently employed by the HSE, by RHA and hospital group; the current waiting lists for pelvic floor physiotherapy services in each area; the average waiting time for an appointment; and the measures being taken to address staffing shortages and reduce waiting times, particularly in cases where patients are being forced to seek treatment privately due to a lack of timely access to HSE services.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of children and young people currently awaiting access to CAMHS in each county, at the end of May 2026; the average waiting time for first-time appointments in each county; and the longest wait time, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of people with an eating disorder across the State to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the cost of the solar panels on the mortuary services of the Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the total amount spent by her Department, including expenditure on legal fees, counsel fees, solicitor costs and any related costs, in defending court proceedings taken by parents or guardians arising from a child not being offered a school place at a recognised primary or post-primary school, excluding cases primarily concerning special educational needs or additional educational supports, in each of the past five years and to date in 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of community mental health teams currently in operation, by RHA and team type; the number of teams recommended under Sharing the Vision and associated Models of Care; and the estimated full-year cost of establishing five, ten, 20 and all outstanding community mental health teams, including staffing and non-pay costs.

Asked the Minister for Health the current number of mental health crisis response services, including crisis resolution teams, crisis cafés, crisis houses and emergency department liaison services, by health region; the additional services planned under existing policy commitments; and the estimated full-year cost of extending such services to provide nationwide 24/7 coverage.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated annual cost of providing enhanced mental health aftercare and follow-up supports for persons presenting following self-harm, suicidal crisis or discharge from acute mental health services; the current level of expenditure on such services; and the additional funding required to ensure timely follow-up and continuity of care in all health regions.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of approved mental health posts currently vacant, by discipline.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of additional whole-time equivalent staff required to bring all community mental health teams to recommended staffing levels.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated annual cost of recruiting 100, 250, 500 and 1,000 additional mental health staff across community and specialist services.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of mental health teams operating below recommended staffing levels and the average staffing deficit per team.

Asked the Minister for Health the additional annual funding required to fully implement the remaining actions under Sharing the Vision by 2030, broken down by workforce, community services, crisis services, youth mental health services and specialist mental health programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated annual current and capital cost of establishing and operating a dedicated mental health emergency room, separate from the general emergency department, in each Model 3 and Model 4 hospital; the number of hospitals that would require new infrastructure or refurbishment to provide such facilities; and if she will provide a breakdown of the costs involved.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of additional consultant psychiatrists, psychiatry registrars, clinical psychologists, mental health nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, peer support workers and other specialist mental health professionals required to ensure that every acute hospital has the full complement of staff necessary to deliver safe and timely mental health emergency care; the estimated annual cost of recruiting and retaining such staff; and if she will provide a hospital-by-hospital breakdown.

Asked the Minister for Health the level of funding currently allocated to mental health crisis assessment and intervention services; the estimated additional annual funding required to provide nationwide coverage of crisis resolution teams, late-night outreach services, community assessment and treatment teams and other community-based alternatives to emergency department attendance; and if she will provide a breakdown by service type.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated annual cost of developing and implementing an integrated crisis response pathway for children and young people; the additional staffing and service investment required to strengthen child and youth mental health liaison services in emergency departments; and if she will provide a breakdown of projected expenditure.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated annual and capital costs associated with providing 24-hour mental health crisis assessment services in all acute hospitals; and if she will provide details of the staffing, infrastructure and operational costs included in those estimates.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of suicide crisis assessment nurses currently in post; the regions they cover; the number of referrals received in the past 12 months; and the plans to expand the service.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of passport applications received from residents of counties Laois and Offaly in each of the years 2023, 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026; the number of passports issued to applicants from each county during the same period; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of patients currently on a waiting list for a pacemaker at the Regional Hospital Mullingar; the average waiting time for the procedure; the number of patients waiting longer than 3, 6,12 and 18 months respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of patients currently on a waiting list for a pacemaker at each public hospital; the average waiting time for the procedure at each hospital; the number of patients waiting longer than 3, 6,12 and 18 months respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties experienced by some learner driver applicants with literacy challenges when undertaking the driver theory test; the supports and reasonable accommodations available for individuals who have difficulty reading and/or writing leading to difficulty in understanding the test questions; if additional supports are available or being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will consider extending the Just Transition Tourism Activators Programme for a further period of three to five years; his views on the role of the Tourism Activators in supporting over 80 tourism projects and County Tourism Officers across the Just Transition Territory; if he has engaged with Fáilte Ireland and local authorities on the continuation of these supports; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason sanction approvals for the 2026 Home-Based Summer Programme have not yet issued to participating families; the number of applications received to date; when sanction emails will issue to parents and guardians; and the measures being taken to ensure that children do not lose access to tutors or programme hours as a result of delays in the approval process.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the legislative framework to address the issue of very high or overhanging trees and hedgerows, specifically leylandii, on neighbouring properties; and if there is any planned legislation on the issue given the existence of same in other jurisdictions.

Asked the Minister for Health if she will commit investment to tackle the under resourcing of the neurology service in the Midlands Regional Hospital Mullingar (details supplied)

Asked the Minister for Health if she is aware of the funding difficulties facing an organisation (details supplied) and the potential closure of its services; the steps being taken by her Department to support the organisation; whether sustainable funding options are being considered to ensure the continuation of its affordable counselling services, including its national gambling addiction counselling programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of staffing all emergency departments with liaison psychiatrists for one year, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of having fully staffed mental health teams in each RHA across the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of fully staffing and operating all 73-child and adult mental health services teams, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost to fully implement the National Clinical Programme for Early Intervention Psychosis; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of fully funding the National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders and deliver the remaining eating disorder teams by 2027; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the current and capital cost of establishing and operating a 24/7 multi-agency mental health crisis de-escalating team, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the current and capital cost of implementing the Governments plan for inpatient and outpatient perinatal mental health care; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost to fully implement the National Clinical Programme for ADHD; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the cost of running the Galway Community Café, the free out-of-hours adult mental health service; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost to increase funding for recovery education by 10%; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost to fully implement the Strategy to Reduce Suicide and Self-harm, Connecting for Life 2026-2035; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of employing a mental health liaison inclusive of salary and PRSI costs as provided for in the HSE winter plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of providing universal counselling within primary care; the cost of providing counselling in primary care for 0-18 years, 0-25 years and over 25's, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of fully implementing the National Model of Care for Dual Diagnosis over five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of implementing the National Model of Care for Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry in full; the additional consultant psychiatrists, nurses, psychologists, social workers and other staff required; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of eliminating all CAMHS waiting lists in excess of 12-weeks; the additional WTE staff required; and the regional breakdown of those costs.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of providing 24/7 liaison psychiatry services in each model 4 hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated annual cost of establishing one additional adult crisis resolution; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated annual cost of funding an additional 50, 100 and 150 clinical psychology training places; the associated supervision and placement costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated capital cost of establishing the planned perinatal mother and baby units in Dublin and Limerick; the expected bed capacity of each unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated full-year staffing and operational cost of each planned perinatal mother and baby unit; the projected staffing complement, by grade; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the expenditure incurred by the HSE on private inpatient eating disorder placements in each of the years 2023, 2024 and 2025.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated capital cost for a specialist adult eating disorder inpatient bed; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated annual current expenditure cost of operating a specialist adult eating disorder inpatient bed, including medical, nursing, psychology, allied health professional and support staffing costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of people in the midlands region who have been approved for HSE home support hours but are currently unable to access all or part of those hours due to a lack of available home support workers; the number of directly employed HSE home support workers and the number employed by private providers in the region; the current vacancy rate; the measures being taken to recruit additional home support workers; and when she expects all approved home support hours to be delivered in full.

Asked the Minister for Health the reason a person aged 98 years, who has been approved for thirteen hours of home support per week has been advised that no home support workers are currently available to provide the approved care, they are only available for four hours a week; the steps being taken to ensure that the approved hours are delivered; whether alternative arrangements through private or voluntary providers will be put in place pending recruitment; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of school meals that were prepared but not taken up in the past year due to pupils being absent and meals not being cancelled in advance; the estimated cost of such wasted meals to the Exchequer in each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality when she intends to open the next round of applications for the establishment of new family resource centres.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of deaths by suicide that occurred within seven days, 30 days and 90 days of discharge from an acute psychiatric inpatient unit in each of the past five years and to date in 2026, by RHA; the number of serious incident reviews carried out in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will reconsider the decision to reduce the teaching staff allocation at a primary school (details supplied) for the 2026/2027 school year, in circumstances where the schools projected entitlement of 198 pupils stands six above the appointment threshold for its current seven class teacher allocation and where it is experiencing a significant surge in junior infant applications and a waiting list (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will waive the nearest school rule for the upcoming academic year for students attending schools in a catchment area (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if the specific areas and schools to be included in the next stage of expansion of the pilot enrolment scheme have been selected; to provide details of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if her Department has specific plans to undertake building works to expand a school (details supplied) in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if her Department has any specific plans to undertake building works to expand a school (details supplied) in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if her Department has any specific plans to amalgamate schools (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the supports available for the collection of used incontinence pads for elderly vulnerable people with medical conditions for whom an ordinary refuse collection is not sufficient to meet their needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the total expenditure on mental health services in each of the past five years; and the percentage of the overall health budget allocated to mental health during that period.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of vacant mental health posts currently approved but unfilled, including psychiatrists, psychologists, mental health nurses, social workers, and counsellors.

Asked the Minister for Health the average waiting time for CAMHS in each RHA; and the number of children waiting longer than three, six, and twelve months.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of presentations to emergency departments involving mental health crises in each of the past five years.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of individuals who have accessed free or publicly funded counselling services in each of the past five years; and the associated waiting times.

Asked the Minister for Health the measures being taken to improve mental health supports in rural communities; and the funding allocated to those measures.

Asked the Minister for Health the amount spent on youth mental health initiatives in each of the past five years; and the outcomes used to assess effectiveness.

Asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to reduce inequalities in mental health outcomes among disadvantaged communities; and the funding committed to those initiatives.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of people discharged from inpatient mental health care without a follow-up appointment within seven days, in each of the past five years.

Asked the Minister for Health the current staffing levels of CAMHS teams compared with recommended staffing levels; and the measures being taken to address shortfalls.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of mental health service users who have reported difficulties accessing care outside normal working hours; and the plans to improve crisis response services.

Asked the Minister for Health the last time there was a full-time permanent OT in MRH, Tullamore; the plans for this vacancy to be filled; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of children currently waiting for OT support in County Offaly; the number waiting more than three, six, 12, 18 and 24 months, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken and supports being provided to ensure that children in County Offaly have access to OT support in the absence of a current OT in MRH, and Tullamore (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of children currently awaiting an assessment of needs in County Offaly; the number waiting three, six, 12, 18, and 24 months, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of children in County Offaly currently awaiting primary care supports; the number waiting three, six, 12, 18, and 24 months, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of agency staff currently working in MRH, Tullamore; the cumulative annual cost of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of administrative vacancies currently in MRH, Tullamore; the details of these vacancies; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of medical and clinical vacancies currently in MRH, Tullamore; the details of the vacancies; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if the proposed reconfiguration of the hydrotherapy pool area at MRH Tullamore has been completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the details of all surgeries that were cancelled or rescheduled on an annual basis in MRH, Tullamore in each of the years 2016 to 2025 and to date in 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of bone marrow samples sent to Germany for specialist testing in the years 2023, 2024 and 2025, by referring hospital; the median turnaround time for results to be returned and the annual expenditure on same for those same years, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Transport whether his Department is considering the introduction of a mandatory helmet requirement for users of electric scooters; whether any assessment has been carried out regarding the potential road safety benefits of such a measure; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of fixed charge notices, prosecutions and other enforcement actions relating to breaches of the statutory speed limit for electric scooters that have been issued; the mechanisms currently available to An Garda Síochána to detect and enforce speed limit breaches by electric scooter users; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children in Longford-Westmeath who are currently without an available childcare place; the number of children on waiting lists for crèche, preschool and early years services in each county; the number of childcare places currently available; the number of additional places projected to be delivered over the next five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the community benefit fund or direct financial benefit that will be made available to residents living in proximity to the proposed Longford wind turbine.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the commencement date for construction works for the Rochfortbridge data centre; the expected phasing of the project; and the projected timeline for completion of each phase and full operation of the development.

Asked the Minister for Health if she is aware that some GP practices are charging medical card holders between €20-40 for ear wax removal; whether this procedure is covered under the GMS scheme; the circumstances in which a charge may be applied; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Taoiseach the current vacancy and unemployment rates in the Longford–Westmeath constituency; and the sectors experiencing the most acute labour shortages locally.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of occasions in 2025 and to date in 2026 where the Irish Consul General based in Barcelona has met formally with the Mayor of Barcelona, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of WTE local employed staff by job title currently working at the Irish Embassies based in Bangkok and Lisbon, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of WTE housekeeper posts filled at Irish Embassies based in Warsaw and Toronto, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of passport applications from residents of Longford and Westmeath currently awaiting processing beyond standard turnaround times; and the reasons for delays.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade whether consideration is being given to expanding outreach services for passport or consular assistance in rural areas for elderly or vulnerable residents without reliable internet access.

Asked the Minister for Defence the number of riding instructor posts filled within Defence Forces equitation school; and the normally filled ranks of Defence Forces personnel for these posts.

Asked the Minister for Defence whether any additional investment is planned for infrastructure upgrades at Columb Barracks, Mullingar, including accommodation, training facilities, and energy efficiency measures.

Asked the Minister for Transport the plans in place to improve rail frequency and reliability on routes serving Longford, Mullingar and Athlone; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the level of capital funding allocated to transport infrastructure projects in County Westmeath and County Longford under the current National Development Plan.

Asked the Minister for Transport if consideration is being given to upgrading the N4 and N55 road corridors to support regional economic growth and improve road safety in the Midlands.

Asked the Minister for Transport if additional funding will be provided for rural bus services and Local Link routes serving communities in Westmeath and Longford.

Asked the Minister for Transport the number of transport-related projects in Westmeath and Longford currently awaiting approval or funding allocation.

Asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has conducted an assessment of the economic benefits of enhanced rail connectivity between Dublin and the Midlands region.

Asked the Minister for Transport the progress made on active travel and greenway projects in counties Westmeath and Longford.

Asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of the delay citizens returning from Australia are facing in exchanging their driving licences; the impact this is having on their ability to secure employment; the steps he is taking to address this; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the number of WTE Garda Vetting Officer and Child Safeguarding Officer posts filled within Iarnród Éireann as of 26 May 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Transport whether his Department has engaged with local authorities and community groups in Longford and Westmeath regarding delays and barriers to the delivery of EV charging infrastructure in smaller towns and rural villages.

Asked the Minister for Transport the number of complaints received by Iarnród Éireann relating to onboard announcement systems, overcrowding and onboard connectivity issues on services serving Longford and Westmeath over the past two years.

Asked the Minister for Transport whether additional Local Link services or expanded evening and weekend rural bus services are planned for communities in Longford and Westmeath who have limited public transport options.

Asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the number and location of communities in Longford-Westmeath currently identified as being at risk of flooding; the status of any planned flood relief works; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the measures being taken to attract foreign direct investment into County Westmeath and County Longford through improved transport and infrastructure connectivity.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the steps being taken to develop enterprise and innovation hubs in Athlone, Mullingar and Longford Town to support regional employment growth.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment If IDA Ireland plans to have a trade investment mission to India during the second half of the year.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the level of tourism funding allocated to counties Longford and Westmeath over the past five years; and whether additional investment is planned for greenways, waterways, and rural tourism attractions in the midlands.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of small businesses in counties Longford and Westmeath that have availed of energy or cost-of-business supports over the past 12 months.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether Fáilte Ireland has plans for additional investment in tourism marketing or infrastructure projects linked to the River Shannon, Royal Canal, and Hidden Heartlands attractions in counties Longford and Westmeath.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide on all actions and commitments relating to the NPWS set-down in the active Memorandum of Understanding between an organisation (details supplied) and NPWS, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on correspondence issued by an organisation (details supplied) to his Department on 30 April 2026 in relation to matters concerning engagement with his Department; when the organisation can expect a response; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the locations overseas where agricultural attachés are located, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of farms in the Longford-Westmeath constituency currently awaiting inspection or approval under TAMS 3 schemes; the average processing time involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether his Department has assessed the impact of prolonged wet weather and flooding on fodder reserves and silage quality in counties Longford and Westmeath over the past 12 months; and if additional targeted supports are being considered for affected farmers.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of ACRES participants in the Longford-Westmeath constituency who are awaiting payment; the reasons for delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine has engaged with marts, co-ops, and farming organisations in the Longford-Westmeath constituency regarding concerns around rural broadband blackspots and poor mobile coverage impacting the rollout and operation of mandatory digital agriculture systems and online Department services.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the waiting lists for speech and language therapy assessments for children in Longford and Westmeath; the average waiting time for an appointment; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she will provide a list of all capital disability infrastructure projects delivered under the remit of her Department which have been completed on time and within budget in Longford for each of the years of 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she will provide a list of all capital disability infrastructure projects delivered under the remit of her Department which have been completed on time and within budget in Westmeath for the years of 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the current average waiting time for children per county to access an initial assessment through local children's disability network teams; the longest current wait time; the number currently awaiting assessment; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the staffing vacancy rates across CDNTs serving counties Longford and Westmeath, broken down by occupational therapist, speech and language therapist, psychologist, and physiotherapist; and the measures being taken to address recruitment and retention challenges.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of families across Longford-Westmeath currently awaiting respite services or emergency respite supports for children with disabilities; and whether additional funding is being considered to expand capacity locally.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the current average response time for Garda vetting applications relating to employment in childcare settings; the number of applications currently awaiting processing; and the measures being taken to reduce delays, in view of reports from childcare providers that staff recruitment is being significantly impacted, including one provider with 14 employees currently unable to commence work pending vetting clearance.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of families, per county, where elderly parents, particularly those over retirement age, are the primary carers for adult children with disabilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if there is an occupational therapist in place in Longford; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the waiting times for primary care psychology services for children and adults in Longford and Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of persons awaiting an initial appointment for occupational therapy services in counties Longford and Westmeath; the number waiting longer than 6, 12 and 18 months; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of vacant posts in primary care services in Longford and Westmeath, including speech and language therapists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and psychologists; the measures being taken to recruit staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the level of funding allocated to primary care services in Longford and Westmeath in each of the past five years; the additional resources provided in 2026; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of children awaiting an autism assessment through primary care services in Longford and Westmeath; the average waiting time involved; the longest waiting time to date; and the actions being taken to improve access to assessments.

Asked the Minister for Health the status of primary care centre developments in Longford and Westmeath, including any planned expansions or new facilities; the expected timelines for delivery; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of persons awaiting physiotherapy services in Longford and Westmeath primary care settings; the longest waiting time recorded; and the plans in place to reduce waiting times.

Asked the Minister for Health the measures being taken by the HSE to improve access to GP services and community-based primary care supports in rural areas of Longford and Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number and location of SATUs currently operating in each county, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE Consultant in Emergency Medicine, Registrar in Emergency Medicine and Senior House Officer in Emergency Medicine based at Mullingar Regional Hospital as of 26 May 2026; if she will provide the same figures as of 30 June 2023, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the WTE staff by job title posts currently filled at the Functional Neurology Disorder Clinic at St James's Hospital, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE Consultant In Infectious Disease posts filled at each model 4 Hospital as of 26 May 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health when the new suicide reduction strategy will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the waiting times for child and adolescent mental health services per county, at the end of April 2026; the number of children awaiting an initial appointment; the longest wait time; and the measures being taken to reduce delays.

Asked the Minister for Health the staffing vacancy levels across mental health services per RHA, including psychiatry, psychology, counselling, and community mental health nursing posts; and if recruitment targets are being met.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of primary care psychology referrals outstanding in the Longford-Westmeath constituency; the average waiting time involved; and if additional capacity is planned.

Asked the Minister for Health if her Department has examined the impact of transport and rural connectivity barriers on access to mental health services in counties Longford and Westmeath and across the midlands, particularly for those reliant on infrequent public transport or travelling long distances for appointments.

Asked the Minister for Health the current level of dementia services available nationally and by RHA; the number of people currently waiting for dementia diagnosis and support services; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health when the current recruitment freeze affecting physician associates will be lifted; and if she will outline plans to establish physician associate posts within the HSE, given ongoing healthcare staffing shortages and waiting list pressures.

Asked the Minister for Health if she will provide details of the proposed salary scale and career progression structure for physician associates; and if she acknowledges concerns that reduced salary levels may negatively impact recruitment and retention.

Asked the Minister for Health if she will review the proposed scope of practice for physician Associates to ensure that it reflects the training and clinical responsibilities of trained physician associates and that it aligns with international practice.

Asked the Minister for Health to ensure that smaller companies focused on rare diseases will be consulted in the review of the medicines reimbursement process as agreed under the IPHA framework and in line with the commitments in the programme for Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the timeline for the review of the medicines reimbursement process; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the total level of funding allocated to towns and villages in Longford-Westmeath under the town and village renewal scheme over the past five years; and the projects currently awaiting approval.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the number of community centres, sports clubs, and voluntary organisations in Longford and Westmeath that have applied for, but not received funding under recent community grant schemes.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht whether additional targeted funding is being considered for rural towns in Longford and Westmeath experiencing vacancy and dereliction.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the current status of outdoor recreation and greenway projects planned for Longford and Westmeath; and the timelines for delivery.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht whether his Department has assessed the impact of bank closures, post office service reductions, and declining public transport connectivity on rural isolation in parts of Longford and Westmeath.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth whether her Department has conducted an assessment of the availability of autism class places and special school capacity at primary and post-primary level in Longford and Westmeath ahead of the upcoming school year; and if gaps identified will be addressed.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of students in Longford-Westmeath currently awaiting school places in special classes or special schools ahead of the upcoming academic year.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of teaching vacancies currently unfilled across primary and post-primary schools in Longford and Westmeath; and the measures being taken to address recruitment difficulties.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth whether her Department has assessed the impact of rising school transport demand in rural parts of Longford and Westmeath; and whether additional Bus Éireann school transport capacity is planned.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the level of funding allocated for school building upgrades and extensions in Longford and Westmeath over the past three years; and the projects currently awaiting approval

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth whether consideration is being given to reducing class sizes in rural schools in Longford and Westmeath experiencing increased enrolment pressures.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if details of the pilot Schools Energy Inventory Project which included Kildare, Meath, Offaly, Wexford and Wicklow have been published; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether additional funding will be made available for the upgrade and development of community sports facilities in Longford-Westmeath, particularly in rapidly growing towns and rural communities experiencing increased demand.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the level of funding allocated to arts and cultural projects in Longford and Westmeath over the past five years; and whether additional supports are planned for smaller rural festivals and community arts organisations.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether his Department has engaged with mobile network operators regarding ongoing mobile phone coverage blackspots across parts of Longford and Westmeath which continue to impact residents and businesses.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the number of applications from Longford and Westmeath approved under recent Sports Capital and Equipment Programme rounds; the total funding allocated locally; and whether consideration is being given to increasing supports for volunteer-led rural clubs facing rising operational costs.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of social housing units delivered in Longford-Westmeath in each of the past five years, by local authority area and delivery mechanism; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of affordable purchase and cost-rental homes currently planned for Longford-Westmeath; the projected delivery timelines for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of households currently on the social housing waiting list in Longford and Westmeath respectively; the average waiting time; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of vacant and derelict properties; the number of applications approved to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the measures being taken to tackle vacancy and dereliction in town centres including Mullingar, Athlone, Longford Town and Granard; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current number of individuals and families accessing emergency accommodation in Longford and Westmeath; the supports available to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the current average waiting times for disability allowance, carer’s allowance and domiciliary care allowance applications across the State.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of people in the Longford–Westmeath area currently accessing the additional needs payment scheme.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection whether his Department has assessed the impact of rising rents and energy costs on pensioners and low-income families in Longford and Westmeath.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of social welfare appeals originating from Longford and Westmeath currently awaiting determination; and the average waiting time involved.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration further to Parliamentary Question Number 2126 of 14 April 2026, if he has received the relevant information from Garda Authorities to answer this PQ.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of domestic violence refuge spaces currently available across the Midlands region, including Longford and Westmeath; whether additional refuge or family support accommodation is planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of humanitarian visa or family reunification cases involving residents of Longford and Westmeath currently being processed by his Department.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the current Garda staffing levels at each Garda station across Longford-Westmeath; and the number of vacancies currently unfilled.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of reported burglaries, thefts, and assaults recorded in counties Longford and Westmeath over the past five years; and the measures being taken to address rural crime concerns.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the average waiting time for immigration and citizenship applications; and whether additional processing capacity is being provide (details supplied).

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason a school (details supplied) has not been included on the recently published school building list, despite the school having worked with her Department for six years on a new build project, and having progressed to planning permission; the current status and expected timeline for the project; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide a clear and immediate timeline for when the new building works at a school (details supplied) will commence; and any direct support from her Department to ensure there are no further delays in progressing this project; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware that passengers in Mullingar and surrounding areas are unable to purchase online tickets from Mullingar to Dublin on bus 115; the reason for this discrepancy; and if he will urgently engage with the National Transport Authority and Bus Éireann to resolve the matter.; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason reinstatement of the special education teacher diploma allowance for primary school teachers did not proceed given 78 branches supported this measure in an effort to ensure special education qualification are recognised.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the estimated total cost per year of reinstating the special education teacher diploma allowance for all existing teachers in special education who hold the diploma and do not receive the allowance.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will urgently examine whether a school placement for a student (details supplied) can be facilitated for the remainder of the current term; and the additional supports or intervention that can be provided locally (details supplied).

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the criteria that was considered, and the engagement she had with representative bodies and the Department of Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation regarding the reinstatement of the special education teacher diploma allowance for primary school teachers.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of primary school teachers per county, who are currently in receipt of the special education teacher diploma allowance, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of primary school teachers, currently teaching in any special education setting in a mainstream school, who hold the special education teacher diploma but are not in receipt of the special education teacher diploma allowance.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans for expenditure regarding the remaining funding in phase one of the local bargaining fund.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the steps he is taking to tackle rising hate crime, racism, online extremism and social division in Ireland; the progress made under the National Action Plan Against Racism 2023-2027; the way such progress is being measured; the measures being taken with An Garda Síochána, schools, local authorities and social media platforms to prevent radicalisation and community tensions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of incidents classified as hate-related, extremist-related or politically motivated recorded by An Garda Síochána in each of the past five years, broken down by county and category; the number resulting in prosecution; and whether his Department has identified any increase in online radicalisation activity.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of frontline Gardaí assigned to public order, community engagement and hate crime investigation duties in each Garda division; the number of vacancies currently existing; and the additional resources requested by Garda management since 2020.

Asked the Minister for Health when the next exam date for student paramedics will be, in view of the fact that it has now been postponed twice in November and January; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport when a second train line will begin construction in Clara; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware that the disabled bathroom in Tullamore Train Station has been out of service for over 24-months; when it is hoped it will be reopened; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport if the proposed assessment of Tullamore bus service has been completed; when it is hoped the details will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of NEPs appointments per county; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is currently no occupational therapist covering adult disability services in County Longford; the steps being taken to fill this position; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the timeline for a decision by the HSE drugs group regarding the reimbursement of risdiplam for adults living with spinal muscular atrophy.

Asked the Minister for Health when she expects to see an on-site pharmacy at a location (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost to the State of progressing one clinical nurse specialist post to an advanced nurse practitioner post; the average difference in annual salary costs, associated training and education costs; and any associated implementation or backfill costs; in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health her plans to re-introduce the scoliosis screening programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the engagement her Department has had with Regional Hospital Mullingar regarding the need for additional parking onsite given the severe shortage for patients attending for appointments.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the actions she and her Department are taking to ensure the safety of the Irish citizens aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the engagement she has had with the Teaching Council regarding the delays experienced by teachers in view of the case of a person (details supplied); her intended action to ensure timely processing and response time to teachers wishing to return to Ireland; and whether she intends to align Teaching Council processing times with the urgency of the national teacher shortage, so returning teachers are not blocked from the classroom for an entire school year.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will explain the 4% reduction in the allocation for the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) in the Further Revised Estimates for Public Services; whether this reduction will impact recruitment, waiting times or access to psychological assessments and supports for schools and students; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether the RAPTOR (Recording and Addressing Persecution and Threats to Our Raptors) protocol and associated system for recording and investigating raptor (bird of prey) persecution and mortality incidents remains operational within the National Parks and Wildlife Service; if so, the reason annual RAPTOR reports and associated data have not been publicly published since 2019; whether the protocol or reporting arrangements have been discontinued, reduced, or replaced since 2019; and whether there are plans to resume regular public reporting of such data.

Asked the Minister for Health if she is aware of a serious complaint concerning the treatment of a nine-year-old non-verbal autistic child within CAMHS-ID; if an investigation has been initiated; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the reason a formal complaint (details supplied) submitted in November 2025 regarding CAMHS-ID has not received a response to date; the standard response timelines for such complaints; and the steps being taken to address delays in this case.

Asked the Minister for Health the oversight mechanisms that are in place within CAMHS-ID to ensure that clinical decisions, particularly those involving the withdrawal of psychiatric medication in vulnerable children, are evidence-based, documented, and subject to review; and if she will outline any recent audits conducted in this area.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of occupational therapist vacancies currently existing in County Longford; the number of approved posts filled and unfilled; the measures being taken by the HSE to recruit and retain occupational therapists in Longford; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the progress to date on Action 2 of the HSE Position Paper on FASD Prevention, published in September 2022 (details supplied), the specific measures undertaken to date; the current status of implementation; the timelines for any outstanding elements due to be completed within five years of publication; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if she is aware that there is currently no occupational therapist covering adult disability services in County Longford; the steps being taken to fill this position; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Defence for an update on the implementation of long-service increment recommendations contained within the Commission on the Defence Forces report; and the measures being taken to improve recruitment and retention within the Defence Forces.

Asked the Minister for Defence if she will provide an update on outstanding arrears owed to serving and retired members of the Army Ranger Wing and Defence Forces chefs relating to allowances and payments previously withheld; whether retired personnel will be included in any resolution process; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health to outline the progress on the commitment to fund mental health supports across all Integrated Care Programme for Older People teams, as per the Programme for Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she has plans to open a new Irish Consulate General in Muscat, Oman.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the total number of smart meters installed to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Defence the percentage of the 2025 advertisement budget for Permanent Defence Forces that was actually spent; if any unspent budget was automatically transferred onto the 2026 advertisement budget.

Asked the Minister for Transport when is the next EU Transport Council Meeting scheduled to occur.

Asked the Minister for Transport the number of WTE staff by job title currently working within facilities and building department within Iarnród Éireann.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of WTE inspectors by grade working within Workplace Relations Commission as of 29 April 2026; if he will provide the same figures as of 30 June 2022, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for jobseeker's allowance that were refused in 2025 and to date in 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of unmarked Garda Public Order Unit Vans currently within the Garda Fleet.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of method-of-entry courses that were held within the Meath-Westmeath Division in 2025 and to-date in 2026; the number of Gardaí that participated in each of those courses, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of occupational therapists that are currently on panels within Children Disability Network Teams; and the expiry deadline for this panel.

Asked the Minister for Health the level of funding allocated to Mental Health Services in County Donegal in the years of 2024, 2025 and 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health if each model 4 hospital accident and emergency department has mental health nursing staff on site after 5pm on weekdays and on weekends and bank holidays; the number of WTE mental health staff that are available for each of those model 4 hospitals, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE registrars in plastic surgery based at the Mater Hospital as of 28 April 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the level of funding allocated to mental health services in County Louth in each of the years of 2024, 2025 and 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE dental nurses and dental hygienists posts filled at Longford dental clinic as of 29 April 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health to review the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the number of contracts a firm (details supplied) has had with his Department in 2025 and to-date in 2026; the nature of services the company provided to his Department in each of those years, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware of concerns regarding the administrative burden associated with the home tuition scheme, including the requirement for monthly paper-based submissions, strict deadlines, and the rejection of claims due to minor discrepancies such as signature variations; and if she will outline any plans to review and streamline the process, including consideration of digital solutions; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the criteria used by the Companies Registration Office when assessing the appropriateness of proposed business names; whether consideration has been given to introducing a mechanism to review or revoke business names after registration where concerns arise regarding the use of clinical or disability-related terms; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether funding has been allocated for the development of an athletics track in County Longford; and if not, the reason for same.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will provide an update on any applications submitted by Longford County Council or local sports organisations for capital funding under the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme relating to an athletics track.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether he has conducted or commissioned any assessment of the regional disparity in athletics facilities.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if consideration will be given to prioritising County Longford in future rounds of sports capital funding to ensure equitable access to athletics facilities for young people.

Asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the measures being taken to ensure that athletes in counties without dedicated athletics infrastructure, such as County Longford, are not disadvantaged in competitive sport development.

Asked the Minister for Health to provide a list of point-of-contacts for the relevant department that deals with the reimbursement of the wig grant for suppliers, per county.

Asked the Minister for Health to provide the total expenditure at the mortuary services of the Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar for each of the past two years; the breakdown of that expenditure by category, including but not limited to staffing costs, agency staffing, equipment, maintenance, contracted services, and any capital or infrastructure-related spending, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the current staffing levels at the mortuary services of the Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar, including whole-time equivalent posts and vacancies, by role; to provide the same information for each of the past two years; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the estimated date of publication for the third phase of the Women's Health Action Plan.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will review the recent reintroduction of State examination fees for leaving certificate and junior cycle students in light of ongoing cost-of-living pressures on families; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the response of her Department to concerns raised by disability organisations regarding the rollout of new inclusive special classes for the 2026/2027 school year; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the measures being taken to promote tourism in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of schools in Longford and Westmeath that will from September 2026, be forced to have mixed year classes due to loss of a teacher.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the way in which he evaluates the success of the zero tolerance strategy.

Asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent of deforestation in the State over the past five years; the number of hectares of woodland cleared annually; the primary reasons for such deforestation, including commercial, agricultural, or infrastructural activities; to provide information on enforcement actions taken in cases of illegal tree felling; the measures being implemented to protect native woodlands and increase afforestation rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health for a detailed breakdown in CAMHS waiting times per RHA, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health to provide an update on current waiting lists for outpatient appointments, inpatient and day-case procedures, and diagnostic tests; the number of patients waiting longer than 6, 12, and 18 months for treatment; the measures being taken to reduce these waiting times, including any additional funding or staffing allocations; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health to provide the waiting list numbers for dental treatments for children, per regional health area, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the current status of the rollout of the shingles vaccine for those aged 65 years and over.

Asked the Minister for Health the steps she is taking to address ongoing concerns that women's health issues are not being taken seriously enough within the public health system.

Asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of the ongoing delays on the Dublin-Westport rail line caused by single-track sections, particularly between Portarlington and Tullamore, resulting in trains being routinely held to allow passing services; if there are plans to upgrade or provide dual-tracking on this section of the line; the timeline for any such works; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport the measures being taken to improve reliability and journey times for commuters travelling from towns such as Athlone to Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for an update on the implementation of the Waterways Ireland Climate Action Plan 2030 and in particular the progress on Key Result 4.3 relating to the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and active travel options for employees and waterway users, to be achieved by the end of 2026.

Asked the Minister for Health the current waiting list for CAMHS services per county; the average waiting time; and her plans to address this.

Asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to address delays and breakdowns in the referral process between primary care and child and adolescent mental health services and youth mental health services, particularly in cases where electronic referrals are not being received or processed; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the current policy regarding age thresholds for referral and acceptance into child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) and youth mental health services (YAMHS) in particular, whether it is the case that while existing patients may be retained by CAMHS up to the age of 18, new referrals for young people aged 16 and 17 are now routinely directed to YAMHS; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the current strategies being implemented to reduce single use plastic consumption; and to outline any new initiatives planned for the next fiscal year.

Asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the State-owned properties in County Offaly that are not currently occupied; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Social Protection the total amount of funding allocated and paid by his Department under wig grant or hair replacement support schemes (including payments under the treatment benefit scheme or any other relevant schemes) in each of the past five years; and the number of recipients in each year, broken down by county, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration for a list of all proposed or planned International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) centres in Mullingar, Athlone and the wider Midlands region, and nationally; the current status of each proposed centre; the expected capacity of each; and the anticipated timelines for opening, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the engagement that has taken place with local communities, public representatives, and local authorities in advance of the identification or development of proposed IPAS centres in Mullingar, Athlone and across the Midlands; and if he will provide details of any consultations, briefings, or impact assessments carried out.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the criteria used to select locations for new IPAS centres, including in Mullingar, Athlone and the Midlands; and the extent to which factors such as local service capacity, housing availability, healthcare access, and school places are taken into account.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the estimated cost associated with the development of each proposed IPAS centre in Mullingar and the Midlands.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration whether any impact assessments have been carried out in relation to public services in Mullingar and the wider Midlands arising from the establishment of new IPAS centres; and the findings of such assessments.

Asked the Minister for Health the HSE buildings in Offaly that are currently unoccupied; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health if she is aware of childcare facilities operating in a HSE owned facility who are now facing eviction due to the HSE decision to sell this property; if she has engaged with the provider; if she has considered selling the property with the tenant in situ to allow the provider to continue operating from the premises; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the HSE buildings in Offaly that are proposed for sale; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the total amount of funding allocated and paid by the Health Service Executive under wig grant schemes (including medical wig or hairpiece supports) in each of the past five years; and the number of recipients in each year, broken down by county, in tabular form.

Asked the Taoiseach the number of people who emigrated from Ireland in 2025 and the number of those who were Irish citizens.

Asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the development of offshore wind energy projects including, Codling Wind Park, Dublin Array and Arklow Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Defence the current status of the payment of long-term increments to members of the Defence Forces; the reason for the delay in implementing these payments; when it is expected that eligible personnel will receive their entitlements (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Transport when the car park at Mullingar train station was last re-marked; and if this car-park is scheduled for re-marking this year.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of deaths linked to gender-based and sexual violence recorded in each of the past ten years.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of gender-based and sexual violence-related cases that resulted in prosecution in the past five years.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the average time taken to investigate and prosecute cases involving fatal domestic violence.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the availability and uptake of protective orders in cases that later resulted in death.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the capacity of refuge spaces; and the number occupied, per refuge, for individuals at risk of domestic violence.

Asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the percentage of his Department's Capital Budget allocation that has been spent in Q1 2026; and if he will provide the figures for the same period in 2025, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of families in Longford and Westmeath where elderly parents, particularly those over retirement age, are the primary carers for adult children with learning disabilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the current number of supported housing units available for adults with learning disabilities in Longford-Westmeath and per RHA.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of additional supported housing units planned or in development for adults with learning disabilities in Longford and Westmeath, along with expected delivery timelines.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality whether all relevant service providers have submitted disability support management advisory team, DSMAT, forms to the HSE in respect of individuals requiring residential or supported living placements; and if she will provide a status update, by region.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to provide a list of all the companies that are reporting on the gender pay gap.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of sanctioned whole-time equivalent posts and the number currently filled within each CDNT; the number of vacant posts by discipline; the number of children currently awaiting assessment and first intervention; and all per county and team.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children in Longford–Westmeath currently awaiting assessment from Children’s Disability Network Teams; the average waiting time; the longest waiting time; and the steps being taken to reduce these delays.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of children per county currently awaiting assessment from Children’s Disability Network Teams; the average waiting time; the longest waiting time; and the steps being taken to reduce these delays.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the current staffing levels within the CDNT serving Longford, including speech and language therapy and occupational therapy posts; the number of children currently on waiting lists for each service; the average waiting time for assessment and intervention; and the measures being taken to address staffing shortages in this area.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the current staffing levels within the CDNT serving Westmeath, including speech and language therapy and occupational therapy posts; the number of children currently on waiting lists for each service; the average waiting time for assessment and intervention; and the measures being taken to address staffing shortages in this area.

Asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of WTE social care workers posts filled at each CDNT within CHO8, as of 1 April 2026, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health regarding the development of the integrated mother and baby unit, and child and adolescent mental health services, inpatient facility at St. Joseph’s hospital Limerick, if she will provide an estimated date for when the design team will be assembled; and when they expect to start to design the project.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of people diagnosed with lung cancer in each of the past five years.

Asked the Minister for Health the average waiting time and the number of people on waiting lists for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Asked the Minister for Health the budget allocated to early detection programmes for lung cancer.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of specialist lung cancer centres currently operating.

Asked the Minister for Health the availability of advanced treatments such as immunotherapy and targeted therapy.

Asked the Minister for Health her views on the regional disparities in access to lung cancer care.

Asked the Minister for Health the amount of funding allocated to lung cancer research annually.

Asked the Minister for Health if psychological services are routinely offered to lung cancer patients.

Asked the Minister for Health the current number of vacant GP posts, including GMS and non-GMS contracted positions, in the counties of Longford and Westmeath; to provide a breakdown of these vacancies by primary care area, town, or practice where applicable; to detail the length of time each vacancy has remained unfilled; to set out the measures currently being undertaken by the Health Service Executive to recruit and retain GPs in these counties; and to indicate the expected timelines for filling these vacancies.

Asked the Minister for Health if she will consider collecting or maintaining data specific to the average waiting times for home support services; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of primary care posts (including occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and psychologists) in Longford–Westmeath that have been vacant for more than six, 12, and 24 months; and the reasons these posts remain unfilled.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of approved home support hours in Longford–Westmeath that are currently undelivered due to staff shortages; and the measures being taken to ensure these supports are provided.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of speech and language therapists and occupational therapists currently employed within services in County Longford; the number of approved posts for each discipline; the number of vacant positions, by full-time and part-time roles; and the length of time these posts have remained unfilled.

Asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to recruit and retain speech and language therapists and occupational therapists in Longford; whether any additional funding has been allocated to address service gaps; and the interim measures, if any, in place where no therapists are available.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of speech and language therapists and occupational therapists currently employed within services in County Westmeath; the number of approved posts for each discipline; the number of vacant positions, by full-time and part-time roles; and the length of time these posts have remained unfilled.

Asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to recruit and retain speech and language therapists and occupational therapists in Westmeath; whether any additional funding has been allocated to address service gaps; and the interim measures, if any, in place where no therapists are available.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE staff, by job title currently working at Tallaght adult community mental health team, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE staff, by job title currently working at west Cork adult community mental health team, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of vacant consultant specialised in cytopathology and medical scientists specialised in cytology currently at the National Cervical Screening Laboratory; and the estimated timeframe for filling each of those vacancies, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of vacant WTE staff, by job title currently at Castlebar adult community mental health team; and the estimated timeframe for filling each of those vacancies, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE senior dental surgeons posts filled in County Westmeath as of 2 April 2026; and if she will provide the same figures as of 30 April 2022, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Health the position the filling of a vacancy for a paediatric occupational therapist for Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore; when this appointment will take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health to provide details of all the current vacancies in primary health care in County Offaly, including length of vacancy; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health to provide details of all the current vacancies in Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore, including the length of vacancy; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of patients awaiting orthopaedic surgery, by category; time spent on the waiting list (zero–three months, three–six months, six–12 months, 12–18 months, and over 18 months); the number and proportion of patients waiting longer than Sláintecare targets; and the longest waiting time recorded for an orthopaedic procedure.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of patients awaiting cataract surgery by time spent waiting 0–3 months, 3–6 months, 6–12 months, 12–18 months and over 18 months; the number of patients waiting longer than Sláintecare targets; and the longest waiting time recorded for cataract surgery.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of vacant posts across child and adolescent mental health services teams, by county and by discipline.

Asked the Minister for Health the number of children and young people currently awaiting access to CAMHS in each county, at the end of March 2026; the average waiting time for first-time appointments in each county; and the longest wait time, in tabular form.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht when he last met formally with the CEO of Charities Regulator.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if Delvin, County Westmeath will be included in the recently announced list of CLÁR 2026 funding projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the way in which the new designated CLÁR 2026 areas were decided; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the plans to change the funding criteria for ORIS to allow for footpaths to be built in towns and villages in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the reasons Delvin and Kinnegad in County Westmeath missed out on town and village funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the plans to expand CLÁR to more areas in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the funding available in his Department for parish halls in County Westmeath for renovations in communities where there are no community centres in place.

Asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht when his Department intend to send confirmation of the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund from 2025 for the Delvin project in County Westmeath (details supplied).