Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy again for raising these very important issues. Improving all aspects of mental health service delivery is a priority for the Minister of State, Deputy Butler, the Government as a whole and the HSE, in line with the national service plan for 2021. This includes continued collaboration between the relevant agencies to ensure that quality and standards in our mental health facilities are further improved in line with the best practices and recommendations. With regard to Owenacurra, the most important thing is the safety and welfare of the current residents. The HSE has a plan in place to close the centre on a phased basis and to keep clear and open channels of communication with the individuals residing in the centre and their support networks. The aim is to secure an appropriate alternative placement based on assessed needs and in line with the will and preference of each individual. I hope the HSE will achieve these aims in respect of Owenacurra. I have taken on board what the Deputy has said about trying to stand back and, between all the stakeholders, to pause this decision. He also said that consultation only happened in the last week. That is a very fair and reasonable point. I will bring the Deputy's views to the Minister of State and hopefully she can liaise and work with him and all the stakeholders to get a satisfactory outcome.

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