The Donegal Down Syndrome association has called on HSE to apologise to one of its members after a health official allegedly described children with the condition as ‘lazy.’
Posting on their official Facebook page last night, they said the comment was made recently when the family had a meeting with the health authority to discuss a care plan for their child.
A number of senior HSE staff were also said to have been present to discuss the needs of this preschool child.
“One professional informed the parents no plan is required as ‘children with Down Syndrome can be quite lazy’ and ‘everyone will tell you that children with Down syndrome are lazy, they just are’,” the spokesperson said.
“None of the colleagues around the table corrected this person in their inaccurate and completely hurtful remarks.”
The family had a meeting at home previously with this professional with their child where they asked for supports to be given and a forward plan of resources and support for their child would be given.
“To explain the hurt this family feels and the shockwave of hurt through our members in hearing that professionals who are here to speak up for and support our children have this attitude,” they added.
“We hope the family receive not only an apology which they deserve, they should be provided with a planned list of services to assist the development of their child.
“We also hope awareness and training is provided with a verbal warning to the professional who felt it’s appropriate to say such hurtful comments, not only in-front of the person who has Down Syndrome, but also to the parents who are reaching out for help.”
They confirmed that an official complaint has been lodged with the HSE over the issue.
We have asked the HSE for a comment.
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