Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 20 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 3

Written Answers. - Psychological Service.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

607 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the psychological assessment service for children in a number of Tallaght schools has been effectively withdrawn; if he was consulted about such a serious reduction in service to schools; the course of action which should be taken in the case of pupils where teachers and parents request assessment; the service, if any, he will provide for the schools and children affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10304/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

The psychologist assigned to the schools in question unfortunately had to take a career break at very short notice due to unforeseen personal circumstances. It was not possible to provide a substitute immediately. However, I share the Deputy's concern that the psychological service should be restored to these schools as soon as possible.

A number of psychologists are about to be engaged on short-term contract to carry out urgent assessment work. Referrals of an urgent nature from these schools should be sent to the headquarters of the psychological service in Marlborough Street where a senior psychologist has been nominated to co-ordinate the response for the remainder of term.

The new national educational psychological service agency will shortly be formally established. My Department will shortly be recruiting 25 additional psychologists, who should take up their appointments during the school year 1999-2000. One of the priorities for the deployment of these additional psychologists will be the restoration of the psychological service in any area where it has been temporarily withdrawn.