Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 8 November 2022

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills

Mental Health Supports in Schools and Tertiary Education: Discussion (Resumed)

Photo of Paul KehoePaul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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I have a couple of questions for Professor Dooley. She spoke about how mental issues often emerge in early adolescence and peak between the ages of 18 and 20. It is a big step for a student to go from second level education to third level education. Can she identify supports for students who are at risk during that transition that could be of help and assistance? We spoke about counselling services for primary and post-primary education and the Minister has identified some for primary education. Home school liaison and other supports that are available in secondary schools are not available in primary schools. Moving away from home and into the world of third level is a huge change for anybody who is mild-mannered and quiet.