Dáil debates
Wednesday, 9 July 2025
Mental Health Bill 2024: Report and Final Stages
10:00 am
Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
I will be brief. As I have said, chemical restraint is a complicated matter. I do not believe the amendments proposed here today adequately address the complexities of the issue. The Mental Health Commission can determine a code of practice in respect of any restrictive practice. It is positive that the Mental Health Commission noted in its latest publication that there has been an overall reduction in episodes of restrictive practices. That is very welcome. It is what we want to see. I am not satisfied that the proposed amendments deal with the issue. I will refer the matter to the Mental Health Commission with a view to determining a code of best practice on chemical restraint.
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