Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

There is no doubt that the opening of the new site for the Central Mental Hospital is good news.

I am hopeful that the more modern and spacious facilities there will improve the lives of residents and staff. However, I note the section of the report where one of the research participants stated they felt the planned move served as an excuse for not acting to rectify issues. I hope the move will provide a fresh start and that the new Central Mental Hospital will be adequately resourced and will be held accountable in upholding its human rights obligations through a robust combination of independent advocacy services, legal oversight, familial input and regular inspections from the national preventative mechanism once Ireland ratifies Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture, OPCAT. Now is the perfect time to start thinking of a programme of reform for Ireland's forensic mental health service.

I thank sincerely all our guests for their work, expertise and passion in this area. We will stay connected, from the committee's point of view. They will keep us in the loop as to what is happening. That will be important going forward.

I thank all our guests. I hope they all have a lovely Christmas.