Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 February 2018
130. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health the efforts being made to reduce the waiting time for referrals to the child and adolescent primary care psychology service (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9028/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra145. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of children awaiting a community-based primary care psychology appointment; the number who suffer from an eating disorder; the number awaiting an appointment more than three, six, 12 and more than 12 months, respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9131/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 130 and 145 together.
In recognition of the particular need to address access to primary care-based counselling services for under 18s, the Government has prioritised investment in this area. The HSE's National Service Plan 2016 provided an additional €5m for psychology for children with a focus on enhanced counselling interventions for children and adolescents. Recruitment of these posts, which includes a mix of psychologists and psychology assistants has commenced on a nationwide basis.
I have asked the HSE to revert to the Deputies in relation to the detailed service issues, including the number of children waiting for an appointment.
