Mental Health Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 July 2022

Thursday, 7 July 2022

Ceisteanna (34)

Aindrias Moynihan

Ceist:

34. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he is satisfied that all third level institutions have sufficient mental health and well-being measures in place for their students; his consideration on the recent ESRI research report on mental health in young adults; the further measures that are being considered to increase the current levels of supports available in third-level institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36747/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

The recently published report by the ESRI, produced in partnership with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY), reports that the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in poorer mental health among young adults. Over the past two years, we have increased mental health supports to acknowledge the significant pressures students are under. Each institution was asked to focus on the recruitment of additional staff and measures to address demand for the services.

The funding of mental health services will be considered by my Department as part of the overall estimates process for Budget 2023.