Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)
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Question 46: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement on the annual report on the Mental Health Commission. [20659/09]

John Moloney (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Pursuant to the provision of Section 42 (1) of the Mental Health Act, 2001, copies of the 2008 Annual Report of the Mental Health Commission which includes the Report of the Inspector of Mental Health Services were laid before both houses of the Oireachtas on Wednesday, 13th May 2009. The Report was published by the Mental Health Commission on Thursday, 14th May 2009.

I welcome the publication of the Report, the purpose of which is not just about detecting abuses and unsafe practices but also to provide constructive feedback to those delivering services and act as an educational resource to encourage the development of progressive and innovative ideas and practices. The Report highlights the fact that reforming our mental health services is not just about increased financial investment; it is about staff being receptive to change. Essentially it involves putting the service user at the centre and embedding the 'recovery' approach in the service. With regard to the Inspector's view that the absence of a separate Mental Health Directorate is a serious drawback to the implementation of 'A Vision for Change', I welcome the recent decision by the HSE to appoint a national lead dedicated to mental health.