Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 143 together.

I do not have the full reply as I did not think we would get to these questions. I apologise to the Deputy for that and will provide her with the updated data. I take the opportunity to say the work NEPS does is absolutely invaluable, as the Deputy will appreciate. We have increased the number of staff in the service in recent years, including provision in the recent budget for the recruitment of an additional 54 psychologists. That recruitment process will begin in November. Even as late as the past few days and weeks, we have seen the importance of the work NEPS does locally and its value to schools.

I will ensure the Deputy gets the specific data she has requested. I can give the positive message that we are consistently increasing the number of NEPS psychologists in post locally. I welcome the provision in the budget for an additional 54 to be provided. In recognition of the importance of their work, that recruitment process will begin as a matter of priority and it is my expectation it will happen next month, with a view to continuing to maximise the provision. Over the past two years, we have looked at consistently increasing the numbers. An additional 54 psychologists this year is what is provided for in the budget and recruitment will begin in the coming weeks. I will ensure the Deputy gets the outstanding data she is seeking.

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