Ruairí Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein)

I want to speak to amendment No. 206. It is straightforward. We probably spent an awful lot of time the last day going over and back. There is probably an element, at times, when dealing with the reality out there, that sometimes what is lacking is a code of practice. It would ensure communication. It is an absolute necessity to make sure that this is happening within the service. It makes absolute sense with regard to capacity assessments and care plans. It is important that we have straightforward guidelines and communications and that everyone is on song in order that we can provide best practice regarding treatment for those who have particular challenges and particular issues within the mental health field.

I refer to amendment No. 211. We all know the logic, and we have seen it once again, regarding best practice. When talking about the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, the age of 25 is probably more logical. We have always talked - perhaps beyond mental health services - about the idea that a patient falls off a cliff. This prevents this circumstance from arising and that treatment can be followed through on. There is a greater logic to the age of 25 than to the age of 18. This is just making sure that we come up with something that works regarding resourcing and staffing. In fairness, Deputy McGuinness put it well in the sense that this could be leveraged and that a Minister in the future could be happy with it. It is about the delivery of a system that works.

Amendment No. 212 contains provisions for a complaints process. This is a protection for all, including those who work in the mental health sphere. We all know of issues that have arisen and of really tragic conditions. We also know families who have been absolutely distraught and not particularly happy. We know that there will be a variance between them and where they are coming at it from with those who work in mental health services. It makes absolute sense, not only that we would have a robust complaints process that actually works, but that it is also seen to work and is as transparent as possible. I see an absolute logic in that regard. Again, these amendments are trying to make sure that we have a system that is fit for purpose in delivering the treatment that is necessary.

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