Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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219. To ask the Minister for Health the members of NPHET representing the views of the mental health services; the mental health expertise within NPHET; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38985/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Firstly, I would like to say that the Government is fully aware that the public health measures in place since the beginning of the pandemic continue to demand immense sacrifices across all areas of society and is particularly aware of the impact on people's mental health and wellbeing.

Since the emergence of COVID-19, the Government has been guided at all times by the emerging scientific understanding of the virus and in particular has been guided by the advice of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET).

Membership of the NPHET is multi-disciplinary and multi-sectoral in line with best international practice. The NPHET consists of representatives from across the health and social care service including the Department of Health (DOH), Health Service Executive (HSE), Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA), and others with relevant expertise in health and/or other related matters. Current membership of the NPHET also includes a Consultant Psychiatrist and National Clinical Lead & Group Advisor for Mental Health with the HSE.

I can therefore assure the Deputy that the mental health impact of the introduction of any public health measure continues to be among the factors considered by the NPHET as it formulates its recommendations for responding to the COVID-19 emergency.

Further information on the NPHET membership is available at: -