Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Mental Health Commission's annual report published today shows that there is a gap in the quality of care for people who are presenting with mental health issues, between private and public patients. There is clear evidence that independent private mental health service providers are providing care in superior standard premises than those within the public system. Treatment should not be based on ability to pay. It should be based on need. The report also shows an increase in the number of children being admitted to adult psychiatric facilities. The recent closure of 11 CAMHS beds in the Linn Dara unit probably means that this practice will continue. We need to get rid of this draconian practice. We need to ensure that our most vulnerable children are not being admitted to adult psychiatric hospitals. Will the Tánaiste give an assurance that the Minister for Health will engage with the HSE to ensure this practice is ended and adequate investment is provided to address the many deficiencies highlighted in the commission's report?

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