Mary Moran (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I will be brief also. I agree with respect to the length of time involved. It is very difficult on everybody involved but we are all here with a common aim that we all want to get this right. Like Senator Ó Clochartaigh, I read that article by Dr. Fiona Morrissey at the weekend and I join in asking for clarification on some of the points in it, particularly, as the Senator said, in regard to the mental health service users. I found it interesting that Dr. Morrissey reported that 60% of mental health service users felt that they had no control over future treatment. That is an important point. We are talking about a review in respect of wards of court, and Part 6 of the Bill, and I have had discussions with those in Inclusion Ireland who have expressed some concerns brought to their attention by family members. It is desirable we would have a look at that category. It is always much better if the wards of courts are family members as opposed to a medical person. It is very important to ensure that we do that.

Another aspect is the funds for the wards of court, even though this may not be the legislation under which to raise it. I do not know where that would come in but with respect to funds that are in place for them that have been depleted as a result of the economic downturn, what is in place to ensure that the people who were awarded money are not out of pocket?