163. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Health the status of the counselling service in the primary care service, including the numbers referred to, seen by and on waiting lists for community health care organisations in 2015 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39893/15]

The Counselling in Primary Care (CIPC) Service is a national service provided under the governance framework of the National Counselling Service (NCS) within the HSE Mental Health Division. It is being funded from the Programme for Government investment in Mental Health, to increase the access to counselling and psychotherapy and supplement existing services provided by Primary Care. Since 2012, this Government has provided funding totalling €7.5 million to develop the CIPC service. The service provides short term counselling for adults with non-complex psychological problems aged 18 and over and who hold a valid medical card. Referral into the service is by the person’s GP or other member of the Primary Care Team. The establishment of the CIPC initiative is aimed at providing a more immediate response to wider community for persons in need of counselling and advice.

In relation to the specific issues raised by the Deputy as these are service issues the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. If you have not received a response within 15 working days, please contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.