Vol. 520 No. 3
140 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the inadequate psychological service available for schools in County Cavan; if educational psychologists will be appointed at an early date to provide an appropriate level of service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15700/00]
I am aware that there is a need to increase the number of psychologists in County Cavan to meet the need for educational psychological services in the county and the Deputy will be glad to know that I am currently providing additional posts to expand these service, both in County Cavan and 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 in a position to appoint up to 50 additional psychologists during the current year. This will double the present number of psychologists in NEPS.
Under the Government's plans, it is envisaged that all schools will have a fully operational psychological service by the end of 2004.
