Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In respect to the second question, I understand the previous Minister did meet with the group but there have been different views within the group as to the best approach to take. I cannot say whether the Minister for Health, Deputy Varadkar, has met with the victims of thalidomide but I will find out.

The programme for Government contained a commitment to review the Mental Health Act 2001. An expert group was set up in 2012 to examine the matter. A final meeting of the group took place on 16 September and a report is being prepared for the Minister, who should have it shortly. I expect the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, will receive the report and decide how best to proceed from there.

Deputy Ó Fearghaíl indicated the scenario he outlined will become a more prevalent reality in the next 20 years and the State should make arrangements to deal with the matter. I made a presentation to the people who deal with end-of-life preparations, which is a very sensitive issue. Unfortunately, it is necessary to examine the situation when people cross the boundary and are not in a position to make decisions for themselves about their future or their assets. The issue raised by the Deputy is part of the general debate and it must be examined.

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