Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his continued interest in mental health and his constructive approach. He welcomed the surge capacity, especially in regard to eating disorders. There is no doubt but that, in respect of these disorders, we have seen an increase in referrals over the past year. Four out of every five of those referred are young girls. There are major issues with eating disorders and self-harm of which I have become aware. I was delighted to reinstate the funding of €3.94 million to populate the three existing teams and put three new teams in place this year. We cannot stop there, however, as we have to make sure the full roll-out agreed in 2018 happens.

On Kerry CAMHS, as referred to by the Deputy, it is important that we wait for the results of the review. We can certainly consider whether a national review is required but the most important thing we can do is await the outcome of the review, which will take 16 weeks. We will certainly consider it when it is issued. I was very concerned when I heard of the scale, that there had to be a look-back in respect of 1,500 children and that what occurred went on for four years. I look forward to seeing the results of the review. We can discuss this matter again when the results are available.

Regarding the issues raised by Sinn Féin in its motion last week on the crisis teams and a pilot, we have not considered the matter since. It was only a few short days ago.

On the registration of psychotherapists, I will have to get the Deputy a note on CORU and the current position.

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