Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

836. To ask the Minister for Health the reason counselling psychologists have been favoured over educational psychologists for funding even though both trained and are qualified for work in mental health services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51928/22]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As indicated in my response to the Deputy's question of 11 October last, a total of over €1.2 billion for Mental Health was provided in Budget 2023. This significant investment will enable continued improvement for the HSE Mental Health care programme over next year.

As I also indicated in my reply, €750,000 was provided in Budget 2023 to allow the HSE to support counselling psychology training places. This funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthen access to psychology training. This is a new and specific initiative, prioritised by the HSE to enhance mental health care overall. As happens each year following the Budget, detailed discussions are progressing between the Department and HSE to improve Mental Health care arising from Budget 2023 and in the context of preparing the HSE Service Plan for next year.

In addition, the Department of Health has been advised by the Department of Education that the Minister for Education and her Department very much value the work of all educational psychologists across the education system. I understand they are working proactively and intensively to find a positive resolution for the issue of fees for trainee educational psychologists.

The Department of Health will continue to work collaboratively with the Department of Education and other Government Departments as required on the issue of workforce planning for health and social care professionals, including on future planning in terms of psychology education, training, and placement. This approach will support the implementation of Sharing the Vision.