The Mid-Western Health Board has agreed to prepare individual care plans for three children suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder under the terms of settlement of the children's High Court actions against the board, writes Mary Carolan. It has also agreed to involve an expert on the disorder and the children's parents in devising those plans.
The three boys, aged seven, 11 and 15, had, through their parents, sued the board alleging it had failed to provide them with appropriate medical, therapeutic and psychological services. Earlier actions were taken against the State in which the children sought appropriate educational services but these were settled.
ADHD is a disorder characterised by disruptive behaviour and children who suffer from it require specialised treatment and facilities.
Yesterday Mr Justice Butler was told by Mr Felix McEnroy SC, for the board, that agreement had been reached. There were conditions but the adversarial aspects of the case had been removed. The children's welfare was paramount. The board agreed with the mothers that appropriate health services within the meaning of the Health Acts would remain available to the children.
Mr Justice Butler adjourned the matter to September 14th when progress will be reviewed.
