Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I want to touch on the dual diagnosis service which is due to commence in July 2024. Last year I announced the new model of care for dual diagnosis, something Deputy Gino Kenny has raised with me on several occasions. This is the treatment of people with a mental health diagnosis who also experience addiction. We have also been working with the Department of Justice on this. It is important that people with dual diagnosis whom we divert away from prison get the appropriate support. The dual diagnosis service is due to commence in July 2024. This is the second one in the country, which is very welcome.

I want to speak briefly about the Pathfinder. When someone dials 999 for an ambulance and the paramedics come to their home, the Pathfinder is available in Limerick. It avoids the hospital emergency department. They come to the home and they are able to provide all the tests. They are able to provide IV drugs. They are able to do the blood test, urine dip and everything that is needed. The Minister, Deputy Donnelly, and I are anxious to continue to roll that out across the country. It really supports people's mental health when they can stay in their own homes in their own beds.

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