Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will give a bit more information on mental health supports in the region. Since 2022, a total of 16.6 whole-time equivalents have been recruited across CAMHS in the mid-west. The number of CAMHS-registered consultant psychiatrists in the mid-west has increased to 6.2, up from 3.6. As the Deputy knows, we had challenges in that area due to retirements. I am glad to say we are back up to six there again. As I said, an additional CAMHS team is in development for the mid-west. We spoke previously about the challenges in the Clare area and the amount of travel. This will bring the total number of CAMHS teams to seven across the whole mid-west.

As I said, a CAMHS hub is in development. This is a consultant-led multidisciplinary support that is an alternative model to providing inpatient care, with treatment at home or in a day hospital. We have seen a spike in the number of presentations, with young people being referred to CAMHS teams. Having this type of alternative to an admission to hospital is very welcome.

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