McGimpsey Third Minister to Announce 'Additional' £1m

Speaking during a debate in the Assembly the Minister confirmed an additional £1million to further improve access to speech and language therapy across Northern Ireland.

Michael McGimpsey said:

“Steps must be taken to reduce waiting times now. This new waiting list target and additional funding, along with other ongoing initiatives, will help tackle the issue of access to speech and language therapy services.”

Addressing the need for a cross Governmental approach McGimpsey said:

“The ability to communicate ensures children and young people can participate fully in society. I recognise that without the right assistance, children who have speech and language difficulties are likely to experience significant long-term educational, economic, social and health impacts.

“Increasing numbers of children and young people with speech, language and communication difficulties are seeking help from the health and education sectors in Northern Ireland.

“My Department has been working and will continue to work, in partnership with the Department of Education, in improving services and addressing any inconsistencies in speech and language therapy. Children and young people must be given every opportunity to meet their full potential and improve their life chances.”

A number of initiatives have been introduced to try and meet the increasing demand including:

• The establishment of the Regional Speech and Language Task Force which is looking at developing and promoting existing good practice in Northern Ireland, as well as investigating evidence of good working practice in other areas of the UK. The Task Force will report its findings in December 2007.
• The roll out of good practice across Northern Ireland such as the Care Aims model being applied in the South West of the Province.
• Additional funding for the training of additional Speech and Language Therapists.
• Additional funding of £4million (Children and Young People Fund) to set up nine early intervention teams to work in extended schools and other early years settings.

The Minister concluded, “The importance of partnership working between the Government, statutory, voluntary and community sectors cannot be underestimated in helping to plan, commission and deliver services in a coordinated way.

“I look forward to hearing the recommendations of the Task Force. I am committed to improving speech and language therapy service provision and equality of access throughout Northern Ireland.”