Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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109. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to support the implementation of a 24-7 crisis support service for mental health; and the timeline for this. [13715/16]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The HSE National Service Plan 2016 aims to address the issue of 24/7 response in the Mental Health service through investment in additional liaison psychiatry services, enhanced community-based mental health provision seven days a week, and the development and staffing of crisis houses.

Funding is also being made available this year to facilitate the transfer of some patients from the Forensic Mental Health Services to the community, and for high observation facilities in acute mental health units. These developments are in parallel to the ongoing development of community mental health teams and forensic mental health services, which have been underpinned by substantial additional ring-fenced funding since 2012.

In relation to specific measures to support an improved 24/7 crisis support service at regional and at local level, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. If you have not received a reply within 15 working days, please contact me Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.