Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

No. I believe it is entirely relevant, but in this specific case I hope this girl gets her operation as quickly as possible. My priority has to be to put in place the plan from a policy perspective and from a HSE operational perspective that will bring waiting times for scoliosis in line with international norms. Four months is a huge improvement on where we were at, but it is right to try to make that huge improvement because where we are at currently is not acceptable. The new theatre will open in April and this will bring additional capacity. There will be further capacity this summer with the recruitment of the additional consultant. We are looking at every and any option including the option of using facilities in the UK. I take the point and will follow up directly on the other issue after this meeting.

On the issue of prevention, Deputy Murphy O'Mahony is right in that we must meet the challenge as it arises, but we must also look at how we can empower people, especially our young people to have the resilience skills that we all need to mind our own mental health. This is the point. We all have mental health that we need to protect, just like our physical health and well-being. My colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Helen McEntee, is doing good work with the youth mental health task force.

There are some really good people involved in that group. It is due to report relatively shortly. It commenced in September. It is chaired by the Minister of State, Deputy McEntee, and it is working to develop action plans for the age groups from zero to 12 years, 13 to 18 years and 19 to 25 years, and for parents and what are referred to as "noticers". It is being supported in its work by a series of youth consultations to ensure that it is a plan, not of politicians telling young people but that is owned by the young people of Ireland. We see brilliant work being done, both in schools, above and beyond what they are required or asked to do, and by people in their communities as well. It is about trying to empower all of that. I agree with the Deputy in that regard.

In relation to the CAMHS services, on page 25 of my Department's briefing, as distinct from the committee's, there are some figures Deputy Louise O'Reilly is looking for on the number of CAMHS referrals, as opposed to the percentage.