The latest CSO vital services report shows that County Clare recorded the highest suicide deaths by population size in Ireland last year. There were 25 deaths by suicide in Clare, which is the highest figure since records began. It has also come to my attention that there is currently a very important vacant post in the Ennis day centre, that being the psychologist. The previous psychologist was in that position for an extensive period but it was a planned retirement. It was known that he was going to retire and he has not been replaced as such. It is a massive concern to my constituents in Clare. It means they are only able to receive the services from the psychiatrist, which is a huge concern of mine. The Taoiseach mentioned that the ceiling and the pay and numbers strategy are not impacting recruitment. Is he able to explain why this post has been left vacant for this period? It is at least five weeks now. When will it be filled?

I thank the Deputy for raising this important matter. The honest answer is that I am not aware but I will certainly find out for her today. Often in this House, I come across scenarios where posts are funded but recruitment campaigns have yet to find a suitable candidate. I do not know whether that is the case in this regard but I will certainly inquire. We have provided very significant additional funding to hire more people to work in our health services, and the Deputy has highlighted a post that is clearly crucial to the mental health and well-being of people in Clare. She has given the CSO statistics to show the urgency of it. I will inquire and come back to the Deputy directly.