91. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide an update on the progress of the €5 million pilot programme of counselling and well-being and mental health supports for the academic years 2024-25; to provide a breakdown of the progress in Cork in particular; if there are plans to expand the programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40008/25]

Sentiment score: 0.29

I thank the Minister and welcome the success of this scheme. I am concerned, however, about whether it will continue. On Monday last, I met with Barnardos in Knocknaheeny in Cork where a programme is based. As the Minister will know, Barnardos' total budget for the year is approximately €15 million. It gets €12 million through Tusla and there is a shortfall of approximately €3 million, which it is challenging. Barnardos does similar projects and explained it is meeting a number of people in relation to supporting children who are going to school and parents. I very much welcome this programme is in place and hope it continues. I ask the Minister to outline what the intentions are in respect of rolling it out to the areas I represent in Cork city. What are the long-term plans for this whole area? This is an essential programme, especially the provision of support to parents.

Sentiment score: 0.31

I thank the Minister. One of the issues I raised concerned Barnardos and the work it is doing. These are two separate programmes, but this is about co-ordination and working together. It is extremely important that this happens. The work the Department is doing means it has now acquired a great deal of expertise. It is the same with Barnardos and what it is doing. It also has a large amount of expertise. It is about pooling it and delivering a comprehensive service in areas and giving support. I must compliment the Department on the amount of work it has done in this area. In real terms, while it is spending €5 million, it is a huge saving in the long term for the State. All these projects really benefit the children and families and the State in the long term in respect of assisting people at a very early age.

Sentiment score: 0.32