WORKING deaf people in Laois are facing extortionate bills for hearing aids, according to advocates. Maggie Owens, an educator based in Laois, was born deaf. “I rely on hearing aids for everyday communication,” she says.

Chime said a three-year delay in the provision of audiology services in many parts of the country has revealed a ‘dysfunctional’ system.

National charity for deaf and hard of hearing people, Chime, said there are over 5,000 deaf and hard of hearing students in the Irish education system.

Chime says people are struggling with hearing loss without support.