Parents’ courage in Europe must now be matched by action from the Commission and most importantly government, say Ó Ríordáin and Field
Parents’ courage in Europe must now be matched by action from the Commission and most importantly government, say Ó Ríordáin and Field - The Labour Party
Parents of children waiting years for an Assessment of Need today brought their fight for justice to the European Parliament’s Petitions Committee, calling for action over Ireland’s failure to meet its legal obligations to children with additional needs. The petition was supported by the committee today – being referred to the European Parliament’s Employment and Social Affairs and Public Health Committee, where Dublin MEP Aodhán Ó Ríordáin will push for further inquiry and action.
Speaking following the hearing in Brussels, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin MEP said:
“Today, parents came to the European Parliament with stories of love, courage and heartbreak. They spoke about children waiting years for an Assessment of Need, denied therapies, support, school places and the chance to thrive because the Irish State failed to do what the law already requires.
“Their bravery touched everyone who listened. I want to thank Alison Field, Rebecca O’Riordain, Charlotte Cahill and Jane Field for bringing these stories to Europe. But our thanks mean nothing if we do not honour their courage with action.
“That is why today’s decision to keep this petition alive and refer it to the Employment and Social Affairs and Public Health Committees matters. At our group’s request, the Petitions Committee has demanded information from the European Commission and agreed to send letters to the Irish Government and national authorities. It means the Government cannot simply look away.
“These parents should never have had to come to Brussels to be heard. But now that they have, we have a duty to make sure their voices lead to action. The Irish Government must stop hiding behind reviews, excuses and waiting lists, and deliver lawful, timely Assessments of Need for every child.”
Alison Field, Labour Councillor and lead petitioner said:
“I am absolutely delighted that our petition has been heard, accepted and supported by the European Parliament. For the four of us parents who travelled to Brussels, and for every family at home still waiting, this is a moment of hope. It means our children’s voices have been heard at the highest level in Europe.
“But this was never just about getting a hearing. It was about forcing action. Children with additional needs in Ireland are being left for years without lawful Assessments of Need, without the therapies and supports they require, and without the school places they deserve. That is not just a delay — it is a denial of their rights, their dignity and their childhood.
“The Irish Government must now listen. We should not have had to come to Brussels to be heard, but now that Europe has backed this petition, there can be no more excuses. We need urgent action, proper services, lawful assessments, and a system that finally puts children and families first.”