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

I move amendment No. 20:

In page 55, between lines 29 and 30, to insert the following:

“(ca) notwithstanding a digital first policy, the Director shall set out the circumstances in which electronic form will be waived,”.

This amendment relates to the digital divide and digital barriers. Given the nature of the sector, many of the relevant organisations work with disadvantaged or otherwise vulnerable or marginalised communities and groups. Experience during the pandemic showed that the digital divide presented very real barriers to access in the context of online service delivery modes. Aspects of this include low levels of digital literacy, lack of access to the necessary end-user equipment and connectivity and affordability of usage costs. Many organisations feel that this is a crucial area for attention to ensure equal opportunities and choice in access to mental health services and supports in the "new normal" after the pandemic. There is a need to legislate to provide options outside of a digital pathway in order that marginalised groups are not excluded.