Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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1432. To ask the Minister for Health if he will ensure that participants in a psychology training programme (details supplied) are provided with the same funding and supports as persons pursuing similar programmes. [13467/23]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, €750,000 has been provided in Budget 2023 to support counselling psychology training places. This funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthen access to psychology training.

I am focussed on supporting counselling psychology students in an equitable way that benefits all students in all years of the Doctorate in Counselling Psychology, and that delivers value for money. The structure of this funding is currently being finalised by officials in the Department. The approach will be based on best practice and knowledge gained from other health and social care funded training models.

Further detailed discussions are now taking place between the Department and HSE to progress this. I hope to be in a position to announce the details shortly for academic year 2023-2024.

In relation to the question raised, the Deputy may wish to seek the view of the Minister for Education as regards funding opportunities for educational psychologists.