Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State is right, in that the HSE needs to provide us with accurate and honest information, which we are not getting at the moment. It is difficult to have confidence and trust in County Roscommon's mental health services when there is a complete disconnect between what we are hearing on the ground and what we are being told publicly by higher levels within the HSE. It is not acceptable. I have spoken at length with the Minister of State, Deputy McEntee, in recent weeks. I understand that it is an operational matter for the HSE, but we are discussing people and their families having confidence, trust, certainty and support within the county's mental health services. We do not have those currently. As a public representative in County Roscommon, I do not have confidence or trust in the HSE.

It is important that the external review, which was anticipated to conclude earlier than it will, is done properly and forms the basis for improvements. Mental health services continue to evolve and need to be improved. Changes may be necessary, but they need to be made in light of the review and in consultation with service users and their families.