Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1372. To ask the Minister for Health if he will implement the calls from a group (details supplied) for increased investment in a number of areas costed at €85 million as part of Budget 2022; if he will make mental health a priority in the budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42605/21]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I recently received Mental Health Reform’s Pre-Budget 2022 submission. I value their input - they play an important role in raising awareness and advocating for improvements to mental health service delivery.

I am giving detailed consideration to the submission, in consultation as appropriate with other relevant areas within the Department and with the HSE. More broadly, the Department is engaging in dialogue with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the HSE in relation to the 2021 Estimates. Until these discussions are concluded it would not be appropriate for me to comment on this matter.

I would note for the Deputy that 2021 saw a record budget for mental health of over €1.1 billion, including €23 million to commence implementation of many of the short-term recommendations of Sharing the Visionin 2021 and the HSE National Service Plan. I am committed to ensuring that Budget 2022 builds on this progress.