John Dolan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I ask the witnesses to reflect on a couple of points. I appreciate what Senator Freeman has done in this area. I want to try to be present in these families where there is a disintegration of hope and I acknowledge the frustrations of staff working in the services. We are dealing with a crisis but we have to set up supports for people's health and well-being which are more than just health services. They must involve a community environment for children and young people. Tomorrow week the Government will launch a national disability strategy implementation plan to move forward the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and this includes mental health. It will be interesting to see how well or otherwise it deals with this topic. I have seen many children and young people with chronic health issues and life-threatening and life-limiting conditions. Co-morbidity, mental health and well-being issues come down like a cloud on top of children and their families.