Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 107: To ask the Minister for Health his views on observations recently by the inspector of mental health services of his serious concern that over prescribing of benzodiazepine medication is occurring in in-patient settings and that this increase is likely to be due to the absence of therapeutic programmes resulting from the lack of appropriate staff; if he intends to address this staff shortage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39200/11]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The Mental Health Commission is an independent statutory body established under the Mental Health Act 2001 to promote high standards in the delivery of mental health services and ensure that the interests of those involuntarily admitted to Approved Centres are protected. In accordance with the Act, the Inspector of Mental Health Services is required to visit and inspect every approved centre annually and, as the Inspectorate think appropriate, to visit and inspect any other premises where mental health services are being provided.

I am aware that in a number of recent inspection reports the Inspector has highlighted the high incidence of the use of medication and has recommended that the practice be reviewed as a matter of urgency.

I am aware that the consumption of benzodiazepines in Ireland is high and tackling the inappropriate prescribing of benzodiazepines is a priority. It is intended to develop proposals to amend the Misuse of Drugs legislation to introduce stricter controls on benzodiazepines. In addition the HSE has been asked to look at prescribing patterns for benzodiazepines in order to identify those areas which are out of line with best practice.