Marie Sherlock (Dublin Central, Labour)

The fundamental reality is there is a misalignment regarding the ages at which children age out of paediatric mental health services and physical health services. It is 16 for mental health services and 18 for physical health accommodation. We need to put in place safeguards for children who are admitted to an adult psychiatric facility. That is why we propose in amendment No. 63 that the District Court has to play a critical role. We have spent some time talking about this and are disappointed the Minister of State will not support either amendment No. 60 or amendment No. 63, which is an important compromise regarding the misalignment and the unacceptable situation whereby children are treated in an adult centre. We very much support amendment No. 60 and I note amendment No. 63, which we will not have time to get to.

The time for this debate has now expired. Do Members have any short comments?

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