Seanad debates
Thursday, 7 November 2002
Report of the Inspector of Mental Hospitals, 2001: Statements.
We have to be careful not to emulate the mistakes made in the United Kingdom by returning persons ill-equipped to cope with life in the community. The necessary backup services must be in place. The Minister of State referred to day care facilities, more residential hostel accommodation and short-stay or halfway house units with the necessary professional support. All these facilities need funding. I hope in the developing financial climate we have experienced in the past five months, the area of mental health will not be seen as one for belt tightening or adjustments, to use the Government's term. I hope adjustments will not be inflicted on the mental health service.
No comments