Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not agree. This was developed after much thought. Extensive consultation went into developing the well-being programme. It was identified by the stakeholders as an important element. Extensive planning has gone into this. Not only are we restoring guidance counselling and guidance teachers, who will be very important to this, we are also expanding the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, programme and we have developed supports and materials that will be part of this programme. There is continuing professional development, CPD, on well-being. There are modules on mental health, gender and sexual orientation, child protection and anti-bullying. Materials are being developed and workshops are being put in place in order that schools can integrate this into their whole-school approach. No one doubts that young people need this level of support in school. The school cannot solve all the problems, but having that level of support within schools is a positive and beneficial thing for education. It impinges on all subjects. We are going in the right direction.

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