Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020
709. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Health the efforts made to date to include a representative on NPHET with expertise in child psychology and child development to enable a child-centred approach to the transition from Covid-19 restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9434/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) for COVID-19 was established on 27th January 2020 in the Department of Health and is chaired by the Chief Medical Officer.
The NPHET’s membership is multi-disciplinary and multi-sectoral in line with best international practice. Membership comprises representatives from across the health and social care service including the Department of Health (DOH), Health Service Executive (HSE), Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) and others with relevant expertise in health and/or other related matters. Given the nature of the work involved, the need for a timely assessment and response and flexibility in terms of the disease progression, the membership of the NPHET has evolved since January to encompass additional experts. This may change further over time in line with the expertise required across the response. The Assistant National Director, Health and Wellbeing: Public Health and Childcare is among the representatives of the HSE.
My Department also liaises closely with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and the Department of Education and Skills in consideration of the many issues affecting children during this pandemic.
I am advised that officials of my colleagues, the Minister for Education and Skills and the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs have produced relevant guidance for parents, teachers and others in managing issues with children and young people which are available on gov.ie in relation to a number of areas including learning, play, and talking to children about Covid-19.
My Department and HSE have collaborated with the National Educational Psychological Service on the production of advice and guidance for Leaving Cert students and plan to continue this collaboration to ensure a holistic approach to supporting the wellbeing and mental health of students returning to school in the next academic year.
