Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

This is a matter which requires urgent attention. The Minister states the programme may form part of the reform of the junior certificate curriculum. However, this reform is planned to take place in the next eight years, which is a very long time in the life of a student. There is international evidence that adopting a whole-school approach to mental health is the most effective way of ensuring the mental health of students. We need to ensure parents, students, schools and teachers are all involved in promoting good mental health. The Minister must work to achieve real progress at school level in the implementation of a whole-school programme.

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