Peter Mathews (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 139: To ask the Minister for Health and Children his plans to establish a dedicated executive position within the Health Service Executive that will be responsible for implementing a Vision for Change; his plans to publish a comprehensive implementation plan for a Vision for Change setting out deliverables, a time line and stating the persons responsible; if he will raise funding of mental health services to 8% of the health budget by 2016; his plans to enact legislation which protects the rights of persons with disabilities and binds public and private sector employers and service providers to operate with regard to the principle of a Vision for Change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7032/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The implementation of 'A Vision for Change' is primarily the responsibility of the Health Service Executive (HSE). In 2009, the Board of the Health Service Executive approved an Implementation Plan for 'A Vision for Change' for the period 2009 - 2013. In November 2009 the HSE also appointed an Assistant National Director as the national lead to ensure the delivery of mental health services in line with legislation and Government policy.

The Revised Estimates for the Public Services for 2011 indicate expenditure of €920 million by the HSE on the delivery of mental health services; this represents almost 7.5% of the total health budget (€12,312 million) for this year. It excludes expenditure on mental health services provided in primary care. It is estimated that 90% of mental health problems are dealt with in primary care and some 30% of people who attend primary care have a mental health problem.

The Government is committed to a review of the Mental Health Act 2001. The review, which will commence in 2011, will be informed by a human rights approach. My officials are currently engaged with the Health Research Board on the international evidence on a human rights based approach to mental health legislation. In addition, a wide ranging public consultation will be undertaken where we will seek the views of the public, the relevant stakeholders and interested groups/parties. The consultation will of course be advertised in the Press.