Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 July 2023
579. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Health for a breakdown of funding for wages for trainees in the counselling psychology postgraduate degree at Trinity College Dublin; where this funding has been allocated from; if the €750,000 funding for trainee counselling psychologists has been allocated; if so, where it has been allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32161/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, €750,000 has been provided in Budget 2023 to support counselling psychology training places. This funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthen access to psychology training.
I am focused on supporting counselling psychology students in an equitable way and that delivers value for money. The structure of this funding is still being finalised by officials in the Department. The approach will be based on best practice and knowledge gained from other health and social care funded training models.
Further detailed discussions are required between the Department and HSE to progress this. I hope to be in a position to announce the details shortly for academic year 2023-2024.
In relation to the funding for wages for trainees, I have referred the question to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.
