Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

First, I do have the will to deal with this issue. Second, as I said, the Minister of State will work with the Deputy on this.

Every region needs acute capacity but the Deputy should not underestimate the importance of strong community-based mental health services. In my view, a continuum is needed. The better and the stronger the community health presence, the less the need for acute admissions. I recall meeting the services in Monaghan a long time ago. At that stage, Monaghan was one of the leaders in developing the non-acute side of mental health services. It is extremely important that we develop both sides in tandem because one has a direct impact on the other. I take the Deputy's points.

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