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

I hear the Deputies loud and clear. Both the Government and HSE value the regulation of our mental health services. It provides a framework in which to constantly review and improve our services so they remain person-centred. The long-term strategic aim for mental health services is to provide a consistent, quality approach across all mental health residences. The Government will continue to work with the Mental Health Commission and the HSE to improve our mental health services and to ensure they best serve the needs of our service users. I thank Deputies for raising this important matter and assure them that their views will be taken to the Minister of State. I understand the Minister of State wanted to be here tonight. She had to attend a family bereavement. She will be informed of further developments relating to the centre. The Minister of State, Deputy Butler, will continue to liaise with the HSE to ensure the care needs and preferences of the residents remain central to any decisions made about the mental health care and recovery centre in Bantry. The Deputies stated that they want the Minister of State to liaise with the various stakeholders. I understand that she is doing that. We value the Mental Health Commission. It makes decisions and we have to work with those decisions. The Minister of State is doing everything possible with the Deputies. I thank them for raising this important issue.

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