Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

A recent European report found that three in every four people suffering with their mental health face huge issues in getting services in Ireland. The report also found that three quarters of the individuals grappling with mental health issues find it almost impossible to access services. These statistics are not just numbers; they are our people. Families and the young and old have mental health issues and need timely services. The budget barely mentioned mental health. It is vital that we have a debate in the House and recognise the huge issue of mental health and the pressures on people. We did not have to wait for the EU to tell us this, but it has told us now quite clearly what is happening, having surveyed many people across the EU. We are the worst of all in the league again. Mental health is important. We need a proper and meaningful debate. We need meaningful provision in our budgetary process to fund mental health services.

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