John Moloney (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

It is a pity that the defects rather the progress are always pointed out in regard to Cavan-Monaghan. Within one month of my appointment I had the privilege of visiting St. Davnet's where I met the consultant, Dr. Russell. Long before A Vision for Change was even considered, Dr. Russell was one of the first people in the area to promote the concept of community mental health services and support. What is happening is exactly in line with his vision of eight community mental health nurses for the region.

Unfortunately, interim measures are often required where resources are not immediately available. While the basement services are clearly not adequate or proper, I am considering interim measures for the hospital. It is not just a matter of ministerial diktat. All our discussions take place with the full support of the hospital management group. Whenever I have visited any of these hospitals, I have met consultants, doctors, users and providers to work out the best way of developing services in the region. That is what we are doing in Cavan-Monaghan.

See this speech in context