Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)

I thank the Minister for attending and for his reply. We all welcome the allocation of the €35 million secured through the budget by our colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, for mental health services. The question is, however, whether it will lead to more acute beds in front line services. That is one of the main points of today's debate.

I have liaised with the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald, on the problem with psychiatric services for 16 year olds and 17 year olds. I am sure the Minister is aware of the issue. I welcome the point made by the Minister on the certification of psychotherapists and counsellors. As outlined by him on the second page of his reply, however, it appears to be a lengthy process. Is there some way the Minister could take decisive legislative action either by administrative means or otherwise to ensure the process is accelerated?

An issue of fairness arises in terms of the current provision. The Minister mentioned that some independent providers have been licensed to offer services but the fact remains that families on lower incomes will not be able to access them. There is still a clear requirement for additional beds.

Education is a major issue, both for the Department of Health and the Department of Education and Skills in terms of self-perception and people being accepting of different body types. I recently heard the Minister speak forcefully about smoking. He made a strong case on health grounds. I commend him on his interest in this major issue. Perhaps this is another area in which the Department could put its shoulder to the wheel in terms of education.

Deputy Mary Mitchell O'Connor raised the issue of websites which seem to promote anorexia and bulimia. I am concerned about the action that should be taken in this regard. I note the French Government has taken decisive action - the government there might change on Sunday to the benefit of all of us in this House. Does the Minister propose to take action against people who are causing harm? I accept he did respond previously to Deputy Mitchell O'Connor on the matter, as did the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch.

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