Liam Quaide (Cork East, Social Democrats)
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509. To ask the Minister for Health her plans to improve access to mental health services for people affected by rare diseases given the particular physical and psychosocial demands of living with a rare disease; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22461/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, a National Rare Disease Steering Group was established in December 2023 and was tasked with developing a new National Rare Disease Strategy for Ireland. The Steering Group have recently completed their work, this has been submitted to Chief Medical Officer for consideration and review, prior to it being presented to the Minister for approval and subsequent publication.

Being diagnosed with a rare disease can often lead to feelings of distress, anxiety, depression and isolation. Providing holistic mental health care and support for people living with rare diseases and their families is a crucial part of integrated care. The National Rare Disease Strategy sets out a vision for integrated support services for people living with a rare disease and their families, including psychological and mental health supports.

Funding of €1.5m has been provided for rare diseases in Budget 2025 with an additional €5m provided to support the implementation of this Strategy. This funding, alongside the finalisation of new National Rare Disease Strategy, will lay a strong foundation upon which to build into the future.