Lack of speech and language therapist in deprived area of Limerick having profound effect on children
School principal Eoghan O’Byrne said he was growing increasingly concerned about the ongoing absence of a dedicated paediatric speech and language therapy service at the King’s Island Primary Care Centre. File picture
The lack of a dedicated speech and language therapist for one of Ireland’s most socially deprived communities is having significant and far-reaching implications on children in the area.
That’s the warning from Eoghan O’Byrne, the principal of St Mary’s National School in Limerick City.
Mr O’Byrne told the he was growing increasingly concerned about the ongoing absence of a dedicated paediatric speech and language therapy service at the King’s Island Primary Care Centre.
Speech and language therapy is a critical component of early childhood development, Mr O'Byrne said.
“Without access to this support, many children in King's Island have faced challenges that may affect their long-term academic, social, and emotional outcomes.
“These learning gaps, if not addressed early, can widen over time, contributing to higher rates of school disengagement and early school leaving.”
“The lack of consistent SLT services also means teachers are left without the necessary professional support to implement effective classroom strategies for these students.”
The emotional wellbeing of children in the area is another concern, and the lack of speech and language services has also placed significant strain on families, Mr O'Byrne said.
"Language difficulties can contribute to frustration and anxiety, especially when children cannot express their needs or feelings effectively.
"Without consistent SLT support, these children may miss the opportunity to develop coping strategies and resilience, which are vital for navigating life's challenges."
A spokesman for the HSE Mid-West said the paediatric speech and language post in King's Island had been approved to be filled, and the successful candidate was currently being processed.
"In the interim, all new paediatric speech and language therapy referrals received by the primary care team have been and will continue to be triaged by senior speech and language therapists within the North Limerick City Network.
"Any urgent referrals received were escalated and priority speech and language therapy supports [or] intervention arranged."
There is currently a therapist providing a level of cover for the King's Island paediatric caseload until the post is filled permanently, he added.
