Gay Mitchell
Ceist:392 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will make a statement on the need for schools (details supplied) to have children privately assessed. [29287/00]
Written Answers. - Psychological Service.
I understand from the authorities of the National Educational Psychological Service – NEPS – agency that the school in question, together with all the other primary schools in the area, has access to the services of a NEPS psychologist.
I am aware of the difficulties that have been experienced by some schools, pending the appointment of the full quota of psychologists for NEPS. I have, therefore, 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. Furthermore, a major expansion of the service is currently under way which will result in, among other things, a significantly improved level of service in the case of areas that currently have access to NEPS psychologists.