Mark Ward (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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I have another question for Dr. O'Brien who said that the numbers requiring continuing care are declining, from her perspective. She also said that while there is increasing demand for mental health services, there will be a decrease in the demand for the likes of the Owenacurra centre, a 24-7 mental health facility. At this very moment in time, however, only 5.4% of the overall health budget is directed towards mental health services but Sláintecare reckons that 10% of the overall health budget is required. In that context, I would not be very confident about seeing positive change in the near future. I would not be very optimistic in that regard.

Where are the people in east Cork at this moment who need care in the likes of Owenacurra? Where are they to be placed and do they not have a right to remain and live in their communities?