Mick Barry (Cork North Central, Anti-Austerity Alliance)
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98. To ask the Minister for Health his views on the Economist Intelligence Unit's mental health integration index which shows Ireland lying in 11th position out of the EU 15 and 14th overall of the 30 countries studied (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30619/16]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of this study which was published in 2014 and is based in part on data from 2011. According to this study, Ireland is in the Top 50% of 30 EU countries analysed in terms of Mental Health integration. Since 2011, we have built on this performance, particularly in terms of funding, where the mental health budget has been increased by around 20%.

While the quantitative data used in the study is limited, it will be taken into account in the context of the forthcoming review process of 'A Vision for Change'.The Department will shortly confirm the award of a contract for an external evidence expert review and analysis of international evidence and best practice in the development of mental health services, including a review of current delivery of services in Ireland, the outcome of which will inform the parameters of a review of 'A Vision for Change.'