Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I ask the Leader to organise a debate on mental health services with the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, with particular reference to the implementation of A Vision for Change. Members will be aware of the great concern in east County Galway and Ballinasloe in particular following the HSE's recent decision to close 22 acute beds in St. Brigid's Hospital in Ballinasloe. Last night all the public representatives from Galway and Roscommon had an open and frank discussion with the Minister of State and HSE management in Galway and Roscommon and nationally. I call on the Minister of State to ensure that HSE management in Galway and Roscommon now enter into an extensive period of discussion with all stakeholders - employees, unions, service users and their families, public representatives, and community leaders - to ensure that all community-based mental health services are put in place before any acute beds are taken out of the system.

There has been considerable concern in the community mainly because of an information deficit. The HSE is doing a particularly poor job in communicating its very ambitious plans to implement A Vision for Change. At last night's meeting there was total unanimity over the need to implement all aspects of A Vision for Change. I want a frank discussion with the Minister of State on the progress we are making on the implementation of A Vision for Change, particularly in Galway and Roscommon.

On a sporting note, I wish you, a Chathaoirligh, and the Mayo footballers well at the weekend. I hope they emulate the wonderful achievement of the Galway camogie team last weekend-----