Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 257: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of psychologists working with the National Educational Psychological Service; the number of psychologists expected to be recruited by the end of 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36617/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I can inform the Deputy that there are currently 151 psychologists employed in my Department's NEPS service, including some 21 psychologists who have been appointed since the end of June last. Furthermore 7 individuals have agreed start dates with the service between now and early January 2009 and an additional 6 are currently considering offers of employment or undergoing the requisite Garda vetting process.

Additionally I was pleased to announce recently, in the context of Budget 2009, an increase in the funding available to NEPS with which it is envisaged that up to 50 further psychologists can be appointed. Recruitment of these psychologists will begin early in the new-year from the existing panel of qualified personnel, until its depletion, and discussions commence between my Department and the Public Appointments Service in relation to the establishment of a new panel in this regard.