Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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656. To ask the Minister for Health to publish the findings of the Draft Lookback Review into the North Kerry Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service that was originally due to be published in March 2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28768/25]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Following the publication of the Maskey Report in 2022, a random file audit of open cases was conducted in North Kerry in order to provide assurances around CAMHS care in North Kerry. The result of this audit indicated that a comprehensive Lookback Review was required. The HSE took immediate action on the results of the file audit by setting up this Lookback Review, to first look at the files of young people currently under the care of North Kerry CAMHS. A senior clinician, supported by a team of CAMHS Consultants, was appointed to lead this review, which commenced on 19 June 2023.

The HSE hoped that this review would be completed in a short time period. However, when Dr. Colette Halpin and her team of consultants commenced preparing for the review, they realised that it would take longer to undertake a robust review of all cases.

The HSE priority has always been that the files of every young person would get a thorough and consistent review. All file reviews have now been completed, and all individuals and families have been communicated with directly in relation to the outcome of their file review.

During the review, any young person whose file showed deficits in the care provided to them, was called for an individual Open Disclosure meeting, during which the HSE outlined the review findings and sincerely apologised to both the young person and their family. Ongoing support is subsequently being provided to these young people and families by the HSE Clinical Liaison Support Team.

Dr. Halpin is currently drafting her report based on the findings of all cases reviewed and it is intended to publish the report as soon as possible. Once the HSE receive this draft, there will be additional work before completion and publication. However, the HSE will expedite this as much as possible.

The HSE has indicated to the Department that they intend to complete the North Kerry Lookback Review as soon as possible and will then submit a report on the matter to the Department of Health. The Department will, in conjunction with the HSE and any other agencies as appropriate, review the Final Report and will use its findings to inform next steps.