Not enough primary care psychologists to cover Cork service

Almost three quarters of all psychology posts in primary care within the South Lee region of Cork are vacant, according to HSE figures.

This has prompted a Cork TD to express concern that young people may be dropping out of school or turning 18 while waiting for an appointment, and are no longer eligible for services.

The HSE provided data on the funded posts for Cork South Lee and the vacancies as of February 2025, as well as details of staff on the waiting list initiative (WLI) team to Sinn Féin TD Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire via parliamentary question.

Vacant

It shows that three out of four child staff-grade psychologist roles are vacant, and all five psychology assistant roles are also vacant, though the HSE spokesperson said that two assistants were at an advanced stage of recruitment.

There is one whole-time equivalent…