Sinn Féin TD criticises lack of vital therapy as OT posts sit vacant in Longford-Westmeath

Sinn Féin TD for Longford-Westmeath, Sorca Clarke, has condemned what she described as a “complete failure of workforce planning” following confirmation that there are currently no Occupational Therapists in post for children’s primary care services in Longford and central Westmeath.

The details were revealed in a response to a parliamentary question submitted by Deputy Clarke, which confirmed that both approved Occupational Therapist posts in the area, a senior and a staff grade position, are vacant.

Deputy Clarke said: “It is simply unacceptable that there are currently no Occupational Therapists in place for children in Longford and central Westmeath. This means children in need of essential assessments and supports are being left waiting indefinitely with no service available to them.”

“Families are already under immense pressure, and this failure is having real consequences for children’s development and well-being,” she added.

Deputy Clarke said the response also confirmed that the senior post has been vacant since January 2025, with delays in recruitment due to the absence of an active panel.

“This situation did not arise overnight. These posts have been left vacant for months, even years, and the lack of forward planning is unacceptable,” she said.

“The government cannot continue to stand over a system where children are left without basic supports. Sinn Féin is calling for urgent intervention to address staffing gaps and ensure that children and families receive the services they need without further delay. We need to ensure no child is left behind due to staffing vacancies”.