Beverley Flynn (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 233: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if it is intended to set up an interdepartmental working group to co-ordinate action by all Departments in relation to mental health; and when this will be established. [23415/07]

Beverley Flynn (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 234: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the steps being taken by the various relevant Government Departments to meet their responsibilities for mental health under the policy framework, A Vision for Change. [23416/07]

Jimmy Devins (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 233 and 234 together.

The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, A Vision for Change, which was launched in January 2006, provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health services for a seven to ten year period. The Report represents Government policy and is the basis for the future development of mental health services.

I have been given responsibility for mental health and disability issues in the Departments of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Enterprise, Trade and Employment and Education and Science. It is likely that the proposed new office of the Minister for Disability and Mental Health will oversee the role of interdepartmental cooperation on the implementation of A Vision for Change.

Beverley Flynn (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 235: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the percentage of health spending allocated to mental health; and the way this figure compares to mental health spending in other EU states. [23417/07]

Jimmy Devins (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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Comparing the proportion of health budgets dedicated to mental health varies considerably across member states and making comparisons is very difficult because of definitions of mental health expenditure, diversity between countries, cultures etc. The proportion of our overall health spending on mental health is frequently used to make a point on the adequacy of funding. However, it is not entirely valid to make this comparison, as the nature and scope of health services change, funding ratios automatically change.

Since 1997, significant additional revenue funding has been invested in mental health services. Approximately €1 billion will be spent on mental health services in 2007. This funding includes an additional €51 million which was allocated in 2006 and 2007 for the development of mental health services in line with A Vision for Change. This is one third of the total cost of €150 million estimated by the Expert Group to fully implement the mental health strategy over 7 years. Increased expenditure in other areas e.g. the development of primary care also benefits mental illness. It is estimated that 90% of public mental health services are provided at primary care level.