Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Dr. McDaid for her presentation and for her work over the years. She performs a very important role. One of the central themes of the presentation was broadening the scope of roles within mental health services to complement clinicians. What impact would it have on the service if we were to follow that? It picks up on what Deputy Brassil said about having a psychiatrist-centred service. If the scope of roles within the service were broadened, what would be the impact? I note also the importance of primary care as a means to deliver a proper mental health service for people. Dr. McDaid is looking for more resources for primary care. What type of resources does she advocate should be put in place at primary level to improve services?

I agree completely that CAMHS should be extended from five to seven days. Does Ms Mitchell have costings on that service extension nationally? It is one of those quick wins Deputy Neville asked for and something the committee could advocate in the forthcoming budget negotiations. I ask the witnesses to address those questions.