Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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82. To ask the Minister for Health the reason assistant psychology posts are not recognised within the Health Service Executive pay scales; the reason such posts are not mentioned in the future policy in the areas of mental health and disability (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39446/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Under Section 22 of the Health Act 2004, the HSE has the authority to appoint persons to be its employees and may determine their duties. This includes the appointment of persons to posts within the psychology service. With regard to the recruitment of psychologists, in the context of significant organisational change and re-alignment, it is the Executive's intention to review the selection criteria for posts within the psychology service. The review will commence in November and, as part of this process, the views of stakeholders will be invited and consideration will be given to developments within the profession.

This review is timely in order to ensure that the recruitment of professionally trained psychologists continues to meet the needs of our evolving health services. I welcome the review and look forward to receiving the report once it is completed.