Vol. 527 No. 5
247 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if NEPS have now appointed educational psychologists to cover the remainder of the primary schools in north County Kildare; if not, when the appointments will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29174/00]
Twenty-six additional psychologists have taken up their posts in the national educational psychological service agency – NEPS – since the beginning of September. Three of these psychologists have joined the eastern region – south west area – team, which serves County Kildare and more will be assigned to the team after Christmas. As soon as they have completed their programme of induction training, they will begin visiting schools.
I am unable to say at present which primary schools in north County Kildare will be included in the next expansion phase of NEPS. However, I am aware that difficulties have been experienced by schools in gaining access to psychological assessments, pending the appointment of the full quota of psychologists for NEPS. I have asked NEPS to develop a short-term strategy to alleviate the situation and I expect this to be in place early in the new year.
