Feilimí raises €1,000 for Ukraine Page 2
European silver for Emma
Over €25,000 raised by Friends In Need
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Wednesday, 16th March, 2022. Vol. 15, Issue 11 • 63 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth
Lack of services for kids with Down Syndrome
Tel: 042 9320888. Fax: 042 9329676. Email: editorial@dundalkleader.com; advertising@dundalkleader.com
By Tamara O’Connell
A LOUTH parent has expressed concern over the current lack of access to appropriate levels of therapy for some children with Down Syndrome. Brendan Stephenson is father to Poppy, aged 14, and is a committee member of Down Syndrome Louth Meath. He is also a part-time administrator for Down Syndrome Louth Meath. Brendan is not alone in his concern over lack of services for some children. Inclusion Ireland has published a research report on the parent experience of Progressing Disability Services for Children and young people. Lack of services was the main issue that emerged from the research which saw responses from over 1,000 families across Ireland. The survey showed that nearly 25% of children with Down Syndrome under the age of five have received no therapty services. Of young children, only 49% have been to a speech and language therapist, whilst 22% have had access to an occupational therapist. Continued on Page 2
Lá Fheile Padraig from Gaelscoil Dhún Dealgan
Kids from Gaelscoil Dhún Dealgan went gren for St Patricks Day this week.