Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)

I move amendment No. 29:

In page 37, line 22, after “for” to insert “no more than”.

As the Chair said, amendments Nos. 29 and 30 are related. They concern one of the issues that has most frequently been brought to my attention since Committee Stage of the Bill, namely, the extension of the involuntary detention period from 21 days to, potentially, 42 days. The doubling of that timeframe has caused very real concern both for professionals and individuals who have previously been involuntarily detained, and for their advocates and the groups that support them. What has been very clearly said to me is that concern is based upon the increased risks associated with prolonged involuntary interventions. The doubling of that timeframe, and particularly its point of entry into this Bill, has shaken many groups to their core.

One group put it to me that the additional 21-day extension appears to proceed without necessitating a new capacity assessment. I can understand those concerns. I understand where it is they are coming from. They are coming from a place that wants the best possible treatment for people when and how they need it. However, the lack of what is perceived to be, and the Minister of State may clarify this, an absolute need for a new capacity assessment to be carried out within those 42 days is deeply troubling. If possible, I ask her to provide clarity on it. As I said, it is the topic that has been raised with me most often since Committee Stage. I would appreciate that clarity, as would the groups, the ex-patients and those who support them.

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