Frank Feighan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senators Freeman, Craughwell and Marie-Louise O'Donnell for their work on this important issue. Senator Freeman has led the way and she summed up the matter when she said this is what is in the best interests of children. The very thought of a child being detained in an adult ward is repugnant to all of us. The trauma experienced by a child placed in an adult psychiatric ward, and his or her family, must be horrific. We are trying to get the best possible outcomes and, working here today with the Government, the Opposition and every Member in this Chamber, we have reached a solution which is as good as we can get. Fifteen years ago, the Mental Health Commission issued guidelines and stated that by the end of that year there should be no more admissions of children under the age of 18 to adult units. Unfortunately, that is continuing, albeit to a lesser extent, but all of us agree that one child admission to an adult unit is one too many.

It is important to remind ourselves that the Mental Health Commission has a code of practice specifically covering the involuntary admission of children to adult units and all such admissions must be fully explained to the independent regulator. I am delighted the Government has not opposed this Bill and that we have worked together on it. We have a duty to safeguard our children and young people, especially our most vulnerable. I am delighted the Bill will be passed.