Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes. There were 414 posts approved to implement the 2012 package. As of 30 June, 366 of the 414 posts were either filled or are under offer or are awaiting clearance. As regards 2013, a further €35 million was allocated. A total of 477 posts were provided for the continued development of mental health services. As of 28 June 2013, of those 477 positions, 55 have been accepted by candidates and 147 are being processed with clearances. They have been offered to candidates to express an interest. Of the 2013 allocation, 55 have been accepted and 147 have been asked to express an interest. The HSE's director general designate has confirmed that there will be no delay, as happened previously, in the continued recruitment of the remainder of the 477 posts for 2013, and any of the outstanding ones of the 414 for 2012. I hope that by the end of this year, there will be 891 new posts filled to provide community and enhanced mental health services. By any standards, that should bring about a much more connected service for those who need it.

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