Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do so on a regular basis in my constituency engagements, as do all of my colleagues on this side of the House. I acknowledge the importance of the issues raised and a determination on the part of the Government to deal with the matter in a satisfactory way. I also acknowledge the dedicated and designated functions of the Minister of State with particular responsibility for this area, Deputy Jim Daly. I repeat that there has been an increase in total funding to the tune of almost €1 billion for mental health services next year. There is an additional allocation in excess of €50 million for new mental health service developments.

If the Deputy requires a drilling down into the figures, as he mentioned, I assure him that €35 million of this will be apportioned for new developments, while a further €20 million is for growth projects which commenced this year.

The focus for funding for next year will be on early intervention. Deputy Pearse Doherty is correct in this regard. The importance of early intervention is well known and accepted. A further focus will be on support services which will assist people in dealing with mental health challenges before they may require acute psychiatric care.

I acknowledge the challenge in respect of the recruitment and retention of staff. The Minister of State, Deputy Jim Daly, is taking an active approach and making every effort to address this matter. He is also in discussions with local managers of HSE regions to deal with the unacceptable level of waiting lists, an issue raised by Deputy Doherty.

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