Not one cent has been paid out from a grant scheme announced by the Government amid much fanfare in October 2023 to fund vital services for children with extra needs, the Dáil has heard.
The revelation was described by Sinn Féin's Pearse Doherty as cruel and scandalous.
The Disability Services Grant was set up to fund essential therapies for children across the country but 17 months later the money has never been released.
Mr Doherty said that two days before the local elections then minister of state for disabilities Anne Rabbitte and then minister for agriculture Charlie McConalogue made a funding announcement in Co Donegal in which they said it would be "game changing" for children's disability services.
He said a parent present on the day feels that their child was used as a prop for this political announcement.
"How could a minister announce funding to organisations where the money did not exist?" he asked the Tánaiste.
The Tánaiste responded by saying the money should have been released and he will make sure this happens quickly.
Simon Harris said he regrets this has gone on for so long and around €8 million in funding will now be made available.
"I am not going to stand up and defend something that can't be defended," he said.
Parents are at breaking point
The deputy leader of the Social Democrats told the Dáil children with additional needs are being failed.
Cian O'Callaghan said more than 41,000 are waiting for an initial assessment of needs.
He said the figures are shameful and parents are at breaking point.
In response, the Tánaiste said he agreed the waiting lists are far too long.
Mr Harris said the system should be reformed and this may require legislative change, adding ministers are currently looking at this.
He also said additional private capacity is being used to help ease the pressure.
