Written answers

Wednesday, 22 November 2006

Department of Health and Children

Mental Health Services

9:00 pm

Photo of Richard BrutonRichard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 254: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the proposals for moving the Mater Child Guidance Service to a more suitable building where its services could be more effectively developed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39313/06]

Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)
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Increased investment in mental health services has accelerated the move from institutionally provided services to community-based services and has provided for increases in the number of Consultant Psychiatrists in the public health service. The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled 'A Vision for Change', was launched on 24 January 2006. This provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over the next 7 to 10 years. In 2006, a sum of €26.2 million has been allocated for the further development of our mental health services in line with 'A Vision for Change'. This includes funding of €1.2 million to the National Office for Suicide Prevention for suicide prevention initiatives and research in accordance with "Reach Out", the National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention.

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

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