Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is absolutely unacceptable that a young person would not be able to receive the level of support needed. Again, we are doing everything we can and not only through the recruitment process. We are trying to improve the environment, facilities and technology to make our mental health services facilities places in which people want to come and work. The fact of the matter is that within the CAMHS teams and services, a high level of intensity is involved in the work. It means there is a high level of turnover and burnout, especially given the difficult in recruiting consultant psychiatrists. In cases where they leave after a short period, we have to try to recruit again.

I believe every effort is being made. Let us consider the teams and how they can be utilised best. I note we are introducing the new well-being programme in our schools. Before the summer is out, the task force will make known its actions and recommendations to the committee and the Dáil. Many other things are being done to try to stop the number of young people needing services in the first place. This is and will continue to be a priority for me. I will keep the House updated with any developments in these areas.

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