Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)

In regard to child and adolescent psychiatric services in the north Dublin region, the Minister will be aware that there are only six beds at St. Vincent's Hospital and very little support is available for 16 and 17 year olds. I have contacted her about several families in difficulty and she has responded positively. While I welcome her reference to six additional beds, nonetheless there remains a significant lacuna in this area. On the multifaceted care teams she has indicated are being established, there was a recommendation from the Mental Health Commission that 15 to 25 year olds be catered for within that provision. Will that type of service be provided, with psychiatrists who look after adults and those who specialise in the treatment of children working together?

Does the Minister propose to take any action to deal with the issue of eating disorders? A recent Scottish study shows that up to one quarter of children in the mid-teenage years, both boys and girls, suffer from eating disorders. Is tackling this issue a priority for the Minister?

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