Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is true that they are seen relatively quickly to deal with the immediate crisis but the services they need to deal with the underlying issue are simply not being provided. It is not just about consultant posts. The CAMHS across Cork and Kerry currently have 84 posts, but 170 were recommended in A Vision for Change. It is 50% of the recommended level of staffing resources for CAMHS in Cork and Kerry. I do not know if there is a sufficient number of consultant psychiatrists working privately but if there is, should we consider outsourcing some of these referrals in order that children and adolescents can be seen? Ultimately, it is about them being seen and getting access to the services they require. That is the first priority we all share. Perhaps the HSE is examining that issue. We all wish to have investment and support for our public health service, but if these consultants cannot be recruited the important issue is to ensure that the people who need access to the services get such access.

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