Joan Freeman (Independent) | Oireachtas source

If we take a closer look at the reasons for these admissions, we can see that it is closely linked to two shortcomings relating to child and adolescent mental health services. First, there is a critical lack of inpatient beds in Ireland. Even more worrying is the chronic shortage of consultant child psychiatrists. Such psychiatrists are responsible for authorising these admissions. Theoretically, the number of inpatient beds in Ireland is 74. Two weeks ago, however, ten more beds in Dublin were closed and there cannot be an further admissions in respect of the 20 beds in Cork.

I shall speak briefly about the HSE, particularly as I have only one minute left.The HSE has communicated a hesitancy with introducing legislation because it has suggested that, rather than addressing the problem, it may result in a situation where children have no inpatient service at all in circumstances where there are no available child inpatient beds. I make two responses to that argument. First, the purpose of any legislation is to introduce policy that changes an unacceptable practice to achieve a higher standard of care and improve an existing practice that has been deemed inappropriate. The HSE stance shows a reluctance to increase bed capacity or to drive forward the much-needed intensive recruitment of child psychologists in Ireland. I emphasise that the rights and welfare of the child are central to this Bill and that I will ensure the implementation of the Act is rolled out compassionately and that the appropriate safeguards are in place to ensure a seamless transition.

I call on the Members of the House present to support the amendment in its present form. I thank the Cathaoirleach and fellow Senators for granting me the opportunity to speak about this important issue.