Fintan Warfield (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am just reflecting on our engagement with civil society on this. I have a note from Mental Health Reform which reminds us that, over three years ago, the expert group, when reviewing the 2001 Act, indicated that the third renewal order of up to 12 months is too long and recommended that it should be reduced to a period not exceeding six months. Mental Health Reform's note also states that individuals who are currently in long-stay in hospital could end up discharged from regulated inpatient services to unregulated community-based mental health services if the gap in legislation is not addressed within the next six months. As a result, there is an urgency involved. I suggest that now is the time to address this matter. The note to which I refer only reaffirms my commitment to the Sinn Féin amendment. I am happy to put the matter to a vote if needs be.