A LIMERICK TD has described lack of progress on the scoliosis waiting lists as a “thundering disgrace”.
Sinn Féin Deputy Maurice Quinlivan made the comment after claiming that the government promise that no child with scoliosis would wait more than four months for surgery is not being met.
“One family I am currently dealing with has been told there is a three-year waiting list for an operation for their son, despite the child’s case being classified as urgent.
“This is a thundering disgrace, and something that should not be tolerated.
“Anyone who has a sick child will tell you how difficult the situation is and how draining it is on their families.
“The last thing these families should have to do is fight tooth and nail for access to basic health services for their children – but that is what has been happening to the families of children with scoliosis.
He said that parents are “frustrated and exhausted from battling the system. They are worn-out fighting for their children to access vital medical treatment – a life-changing surgery. This is a battle they should not have to fight.”
“They have had too many false dawns and unfulfilled promises regarding the delivery of surgery for their children.
“The fact that the huge waiting lists for spinal surgery for children with scoliosis has been ongoing for almost a decade now is beyond ridiculous.
“How can the government stand by and let this situation continue?” he asked.
