"There's a massive shortfall of psychologists out there"
The Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) is seeking for an additional 50 psychologists to be trained each year.
The society would like to see a €2.45 million investment per year, over a 5-year period.
100 fully qualified psychologists graduate annually, despite growing demands on the health service.
President of the PSI , Dr. Vincent McDarby is proposing the approach to increase the numbers graduating, noting even with the investment it would be "four years before additional psychologists are on the ground".
In terms of the effects on waiting lists due to Covid-19 he noted "we were expecting as a result of the pandemic to see an increase in referrals to health services."
He joined 'Kildare Focus' this on Wednesday afternoon:
The PSI is holding its annual conference in Portlaoise this week.
Man Arrested In Connection With Fatal Hit-And-Run Incident In Limerick
Man Dead After Car Enters Grand Canal In Kilmeague
The Newbridge-Kildare Samaritans Branch Have Launched This Year's Longest Night Campaign
A Young Mother Has Died Following A Hit And Run In Co.Limerick Yesterday Afternoon
More Than 53 Thousand Patients Dischagred Themselves From A&E In The First Half Of The Year
Church Spire Collapsed To The Ground After Being Struck By Lightening In Co.Clare Last Night
The DSPCA Are Adivising Against Pets Being Given As A Substitute For An Engagement Ring This Christmas
A Man Has Died Following A Single-Vehicle Collision In Co.Offaly
