David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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136. To ask the Minister for Health if she will fund a centre (details supplied) for the south-east; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24147/25]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I recently met with Waterford Comhairle na nÓg to update them on my efforts to establish a new youth mental health service for Waterford and the South East.

Improving access to a range of youth mental health services remains a priority for me, for the Department of Health, and for the HSE.

I received a formal proposal from Jigsaw in recent weeks to establish a youth mental health service for Waterford and the South East. In addition, I have invited proposals from other relevant organisations nationally that might be interested in developing youth mental health services.

Work to secure a suitable premises for this service has begun with the chief executive of Waterford City and County Council and I have discussed the need for the service with the local HSE Integrated Health Area Manager.

I am evaluating all of the options available to me as Minister in how best to provide a youth mental health service in Waterford and other areas of the country where a service has yet to be established. I intend to secure funding for this new service in the Estimates process 2026.

I am determined that young people in Waterford and the South East have access to a youth mental health service and I will work with my Department and the HSE over coming months to achieve this.