David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 80: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 14 of 1 December 2011, the progress that has been made by the interdepartmental group examining the issue of persons with mental illness entering the criminal justice system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22665/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The Department of Health and I announced the establishment of an interdepartmental group charged with examining issues relating to people with mental illness or a mental disorder interacting with the criminal justice system and its agencies. The interdepartmental group includes representatives from the Department of Justice and Equality, the Department of Health, and relevant services including the Health Service Executive with separate representation from the National Forensic Mental Health Service, the Garda Síochána and the Irish Prison Service. It is jointly chaired by both Departments.

While work is ongoing, I understand that a list of issues that have given rise to concerns have been identified by the group. These issues relate to when a person with a mental health issue comes into contact with the criminal justice system. A number of subgroups have been established to examine these specific issues in more detail and they are to report back to the main group.

Submissions were also sought to assist the group identify the key issues and make recommendations on the interaction between the mentally ill and the criminal justice system. To date, ten submissions have been received and are currently being considered. The group is to report back by the middle of this year.

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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I thank the Minister of State for the progress made in the matter. How many prisoners are still on waiting lists to be moved to the Central Mental Hospital? If the Minister of State does not have the information to hand she might get it to me later.

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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I do not have that specific information but will ensure the Deputy gets it. I am aware he has a particular interest in the area. A new central mental hospital, which is being designed at present, will be of enormous benefit. As he will know, the Central Mental Hospital performs a unique service regarding the mental health of people who come before the courts. We cannot continue to have people, who have difficulty with their mental health, being detained in our jails rather than in a more appropriate setting.