There are a small number of individuals who, for varying periods, require special facilities due to the extent of their disturbed behaviour consequent on severe mental illness. The appropriate intervention and skills required for these patients are not ordinarily available in acute units. The Department of Health and Children is committed to facilitating the development of dedicated facilities in each health board for such disturbed mentally ill patients. These facilities will cater for approximately ten to 15 patients and will be staffed by specially skilled professionals in each health board. Discussions with health boards on this matter are ongoing.