Mark Ward (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chairman and the witnesses. It is my first chance to address the committee. I have been going through some of the reports that were circulated. The World Health Organization has warned that the Covid-19 pandemic risks sparking a global mental health crisis. It was very telling this morning to see the Mental Health Reform survey on the impact of Covid-19, which was published this morning and in which all 75 Mental Health Reform member organisations were invited to take part. Some 74% of Mental Health Reform members agreed that the Government has not done enough to address the mental health impact of the Covid-19 pandemic; 92% agreed that the mental health services required additional resources to deal with the mental health impact of the Covid-19 pandemic; 48% reported that the Covid-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on their organisation in the month prior to completing the survey; and 55% had to cancel fundraising events or delivery of services while another 10% are expected to do so in the near future. Some 76% had to withdraw services they normally provide due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It goes to show the strain that seems to be coming down the line for mental health services and mental health provision over the next while. How do Mental Health Ireland's members see themselves addressing these issues? What additional resources and supports are needed, financially and organisationally? That is taking into consideration that the World Health Organization recommends that 12% of the health budget should be allocated to mental health. Currently, Ireland stands at 7%.