Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 83: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if and when further psychological assessment will be carried out in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16834/05]

Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the matter referred to by the Deputy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 84: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will consider undertaking a public education and awareness campaign to counter the stigma of mental illness, emphasising the rights of persons with mental illness; the likely cost of such a campaign based on previous awareness campaigns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16865/05]

Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)
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I appointed an expert group on mental health policy in 2003 with the specific task of preparing a new policy framework for the mental health services, updating the present policy document, Planning for the Future. The group, currently examining the future direction and delivery of all aspects of our mental health services, including the ongoing problem of stigma, is expected to publish its report later this year.

Following receipt of this report the development of an anti-stigma campaign will be considered by my Department in consultation with the Health Service Executive. I am also aware that the Mental Health Commission has indicated its intention to increase public awareness and interest in mental health services and, in particular, to initiate public awareness campaigns, solely and in liaison with other groups, which will help to dispel the stigma associated with mental illness.