Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 10 May 2000

Vol. 518 No. 6

Written Answers. - Psychological Service.

Gerry Reynolds

Ceist:

579 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Education and Science the child educational psychologist facilities available to children attending primary schools in County Leitrim; and the plans he has to extend this facility to all schools in view of the fact there are a large number of children requiring this facility within the county. [12735/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

There is currently one educational psychologist from the national educational psychological service – NEPS – providing a psychological service to a number of primary schools in County Leitrim.

The Deputy will be glad to know that I am providing additional posts to greatly expand this service nationally.

As part of this expansion the Civil Service and Local Appointments Commission is currently completing the process of recruiting additional suitably qualified psychologists. As a result, my Department expects to be in a position to appoint up to 50 additional psychologists during the current year. This will double the current number of psychologists in NEPS. The management committee of NEPS is preparing a development plan for the phased expansion of the service. The priorities for expansion will be agreed by the management committee in consultation with local interests, including other providers of psychological services. It is envisaged that all schools will have a fully operational psychological service by the end of 2004.

Gerry Reynolds

Ceist:

580 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will make funding available, as a matter of urgency, to Summerhill college, Sligo, as outlined in its recent application, for funding for numerous works to be carried out at the college to safeguard the health and safety of students and staff. [12736/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

An application has been received from the managerial authorities of Summerhill college, Sligo, for refurbishment works to be carried out at the school.

An architect has recently been appointed to prepare a report on the whole school building, including health and safety issues. On receipt and consideration of this report, my Department will be in touch with the school authorities to progress this project.

The question of funding will be addressed when this project has progressed through the stages of architectural planning.