Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 May 1999

Vol. 505 No. 1

Written Answers. - Commencement Orders.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

172 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the Acts and provisions of Acts not in force by reason of the fact that a commencement order has not been made; if such an order will be made; if so, when it will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13246/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland Act, which was enacted in July 1998, came into force on 1 January 1999. A commencement order is required for Part IV of the Act which deals with the enforcement of food safety standards. Negotiations are ongoing between the FSAI and the official agencies listed in the Second Schedule of the Act on entering into service contracts. Following agreement, a commencement order will be made.

The Health (Mental Services) Act, 1981, was not brought into force as its provisions were overtaken by provisions in international law which require different safeguards against improper detention than those provided under the Act. The general thrust of the Act has been superseded by developments in the psychiatric services.

The provisions of section 47 (1) of the Health Act, 1970, regarding appeals were not brought formally into effect but procedures have been operating informally in all health boards. Proposals for the amendment of these procedures in order to provide for a more customer focused service are currently being examined.