James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I understand only one out of the 168 recommendations from the expert review group has been implemented. The review group is now three years out of date. As the Minister stated himself, the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act is beginning to become obsolete, which is unacceptable.

Over 90% of all people receiving supports received them in non-approved centres. Only 10% of centres are actually approved and inspected. The next Leas Cross will happen in people’s homes because no inspections are being carried out and there is no risk that anyone will be caught.

The Mental Health Commission has reiterated its call on the Government to give it powers to regulate community-based services with the increasing number of patients accommodated in those. We had the policy of closing down the old Victorian hospitals, which was right, but adequate community supports are not being put in place. No one is inspecting those supports being put in place. There needs to be increased supports. The Mental Health Commission is seeking regulatory powers and should be given to it.

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