Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I note what the Senator has said about restorative justice. It is something in which I believe, even in the criminal justice system and its application to prisoners. In the bullying area, it is definitely worth considering. I will bring that suggestion back to the Minister, Deputy Foley.

Extra NEPS psychologists have been provided for in the budget for this year. We were acutely aware, in particular during Covid, of how difficult it has been for children. It is important that we have adequate resources and psychologists. It is also important to stress the role of the Department's inspectorate in monitoring schools and looking at their anti-bullying measures in primary, post-primary and centres for education, using a number of different inspection types.I am also aware and conscious of the fact the Joint Committee on Education, Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science is engaged in a series of meetings and is listening to a range of stakeholders, including representatives of my Department, on the topic of school bullying and its impact on mental health.

The Minister for Education and I are looking forward to engaging positively with these deliberations. I have noted the Senator's concerns and I will bring them to the attention of the Minister and the Department.