Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has strongly criticised the Government’s ongoing failure to tackle the unacceptable waiting times for children’s Assessments of Need, warning that these delays are causing lasting harm, breaching children’s rights, and violating the law.
Deputy McGuinness met this week with Cara Darmody, the 14-year-old campaigner who has become a powerful voice for families fighting for timely access to disability and educational supports. Cara will meet Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald later this week, and in May she will stage a 50-hour sleep-out protest outside Leinster House to highlight the urgent need for action.
Speaking after the meeting, Deputy McGuinness said:
“Cara Darmody is an extraordinary young person. She is doing what this Government should be doing — standing up for children and demanding their rights be respected. No child should have to wait years for a basic assessment they are legally entitled to.”
He continued:
“The failure to provide timely Assessments of Need is not only causing harm — it is breaking the law. The State has clear legal obligations under the Disability Act 2005. By failing to meet statutory timelines, the Government is violating the rights of children across Ireland.”
“Behind every delayed assessment is a child waiting for vital supports, for therapies, for interventions that could transform their future. Every month of delay damages outcomes for children and piles pressure on families.”
Deputy McGuinness highlighted that the delays are devastating for children and families l:
“Without early intervention, children are being denied their right to reach their full potential. Parents are left fighting a system that should be supporting them. Schools are struggling without the resources they need. It is an unforgivable failure.”
He also criticised the Government’s lack of urgency:
“The Government keeps talking about building capacity — but where are the results? Families need real action, not more empty promises. We need full staffing of Children’s Disability Network Teams, direct investment in frontline services, and real enforcement of the law.”
In conclusion, Deputy McGuinness offered his full support to Cara’s upcoming protest:
“I commend Cara’s courage and determination. Her 50-hour sleep-out protest is a damning indictment of a political system that is failing its youngest citizens. My party and I will continue to stand with Cara and all the families fighting for justice.”
Conor D. McGuinness TD 