Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I commend the Minister, his officials and in particular, our healthcare and front-line workers for their unwavering commitment to those who they treat. I am conscious that Ireland's response to Covid-19 has been a momentous effort and one that has brought many communities together, even while physically remaining apart. Everyone I meet acknowledges Ireland's swift response to the crisis in comparison with other countries which are experiencing greater difficulties.

The mental health crisis triggered by Covid-19 is escalating rapidly. Flattening the mental health curve is the next big coronavirus challenge. While all population groups are affected, this crisis is especially difficult for students, particularly for those pushed off a college campus and now facing economic uncertainty. We have youths suffering from unemployment, adults with children at home and struggling to juggle work and carry out homeschooling, our elderly suffering with cocooning and physical distancing and our front-line staff and healthcare workers risking their lives to save others. With a concerted effort, clinicians and policymakers must meet this challenge head on, ensuring waiting lists are reduced and access to services is prioritised. How does the Minister intend to flatten the rising mental health curve? I welcome him bringing the new A Vision for Change document to Cabinet this week. We need to ensure our HSE statutory services, such as CAMHS, community psychology, adult mental health and the community service groups, such as those operating in my constituency like Mindspace Mayo and Mayo Mental Health Association and the various family resource centres are given direction.

The Minister may recall visiting Mayo University Hospital in November 2016 when he witnessed at first hand the excellent work being done by the hardworking staff there.

Thankfully, as of Wednesday, I note that no new suspected Covid-19 cases have been admitted to Mayo University Hospital for a fifth consecutive day. I am aware of some physical changes to the hospital, including a new entrance. Having spoken to some local health workers, however, I wish to point out that concern remains about staff working within Covid and non-Covid patient pathways. Any information available from the Minister or the Saolta hospital group would be greatly appreciated. Are there any plans to update Sláintecare to include greater provision for isolation rooms and facilities to counter infectious diseases, in addition to an increase in bed capacity and further capital investment?

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