Number of individual pupils assessed by NEPS psychologists in the school year 2000 to 2001:

2,193 full assessments

428 assessments of attainment only

318 other assessments.

(The figures do not include pupils seen by other psychologists in the educational system but outside NEPS)

NEPS was established in September 1999 by Minister Michael Martin. In his announcement in June 1999, he said: "Parents, school managers, teachers and students have waited for a long time for the introduction of this service. The National Educational Psychological Service will be developed in partnership with all concerned and it will become a valuable resource within the education system."

Psychologists are a valuable resource within the system, but access to them is still inadequate.

"A national forum in primary education: ending disadvantage", organised by the Centre for Educational Disadvantage, St Patrick's College, Drumcondra, Dublin, takes place from July 1st to 5th. A statutory Educational Disadvantage committee has recently been established. Will the new Minister for Education be prepared to act on their findings?