Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Devine for her contribution and welcome her comments on the CAMHS facility in Ballyfermot. That is a good news story. To go back to the original debate, we have a major problem with staffing and I share the Senator's concerns in that regard. I met with Mr. Paul Bell from SIPTU yesterday in regard to care staff and the disability services. There is an issue there about recruiting staff. I accept that point. That is an issue the HSE has to do something about. We are 20% down and that is the reality. My problem is that we are increasing the funding for mental health to €910 million next year but seem to have a problem getting the staff. My argument, which I am sure is made by a number of Ministers, is that when we bring in agency staff costs are increased and the stability of the service is taken away, which is needed.

I will bring the Senator's concerns back to the Minister. We should listen to the PNA and the contributions from people on the ground. The Senator knows from her own experience, and I know as a former branch secretary in the Irish National Teachers' Organisation, INTO, that people on the ground will give an insight to management on the way services are run every, and their voices should always be listened to.

The Senator mentioned the important issue of designing the buildings, and involving patients and service staff directly in that process. I will bring the Senator's concerns back to the senior Minister and the HSE. We have to do something about the shortage of nursing staff and prevent the closure of wards.