Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank all of the witnesses for their comprehensive presentations. Hearing the issues with general practice and the workforce crisis being discussed has been an eye-opener. Many of my questions have already been asked and Senator Hoey touched a little on the issue of mental health. I want to ask questions on this. There is no doubt that a high-level working group to address all the issues relating to general practice is badly needed. It is vital having heard the presentations. It has to happen.

I want to speak about mental health. There are several areas I want to discuss. There have been many reports on the negative mental health impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. I have seen the huge surge in mental health problems in general. It probably comes out of the whole trauma of Covid-19. The witnesses spoke a little about GP burnout. Are there supports that would help GPs in general in the work they do, bearing in mind we are in crisis with regard to the issues in general practice the witnesses have brought before the committee? Are there mental health supports for GPs given the amount of work they do and the threat of burnout?