Dan Neville (Limerick West, Fine Gael)

In 1984, some 12% of the total health budget was allocated to mental health services. This year, 6.7% of the total health budget will be allocated to it and the percentage has dropped each year since the Government went into office. The Government has no interest in or commitment to this area, and will continue to have none.

During this Government's time in office, we on this side of the House have repeatedly requested funding. We did not give dramatic speeches as the Minister did. I ask the Minister sincerely, for the sake of those who suffer from mental health issues, who are suicidal and those bereaved by suicide to go and let another Government deal with the matter.

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