James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

Another week will not give rise to tumultuous events. We could avoid rushing this legislation through and consult with the various bodies that should be consulted. This is important legislation. I acknowledge there is an issue and that it must be addressed. Professionals would acknowledge that as well. However, input on the needs of patients, as represented through Amnesty International, Schizophrenia Ireland, the Irish Mental Health Coalition and the Psychiatric Nurses Association, would be useful.

This is very serious legislation, which gives some people power over other people. The only people who have that power currently are answerable to the Medical Council and An Bord Altranais. We are giving this power to an agency, and the legislation does not even contain an amendment providing that these agencies must employ psychiatric nurses for this duty. It only refers to an agency. Like Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, I noted the use of the word "proprietor" and wondered about its implications. I also wondered what the current situation is vis-À-vis institutions such as St. John of God Hospital, St. Edmundsbury and so forth where people can be committed by two doctors. Only doctors can do it, not the proprietor. Will the proprietor make arrangements with an agency?

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