It is my intention that there should eventually be a psychological service available for all children in schools. For this reason, there is a policy statement concerning the development of the schools psychological service in the Government White Paper on Education, which envisages the expansion of the psychological service on a phased basis. The provision of the service is seen as a function of the new education boards.
There is currently a psychologist from my Department assigned to second level schools in County Clare. Parents may access this service through the second level school attended by an individual pupil. Psychologists from this Department serving second level schools carry out assessments and casework as the resources of time and personnel allow. Pupils and their families who require ongoing therapeutic work may be helped by services of the regional health board or by voluntary agencies funded by the board.
In general, the responsibility for the psychological assessment of children in national schools, where such is deemed necessary, is a matter for the regional health boards through the appropriate director of community care.