Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate and acknowledge the Taoiseach's interest in the subject and his commitment to addressing what is a very serious problem. I know the services that operate in Tipperary and meet the people involved regularly. They tell me that despite the investment the Taoiseach has mentioned, there is still a huge shortage of resources, particularly personnel. I ask the Taoiseach to examine the INTO's pre-budget submission. It is asking for an increase for the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, and it is also looking for the reinstatement and expansion of in-school and early-years therapy supports. The staff of the INTO and the teachers it represents are on the ground and see what I am referring to happening every other day. They know exactly what is required. They are also calling for on-site counselling and a national framework to monitor the development of the services. The INTO has said that the cost would be approximately €11 million annually. This is a small price to pay for the mental well-being of our children. We have an obligation to protect them but are failing too many of them at present. No child should be left waiting indefinitely for professional mental health support.

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