With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take questions Nos. 51 and 52 together.
Adolescents in need of psychiatric care may, in appropriate cases, receive treatment in the psychiatric institutions out-patient clinics. The Commission of Inquiry on Mental Illness recommended that for a small number of these adolescents separate residential accommodation on a regional basis would be necessary. The Dublin Health Authority is at present converting a building at St. Brendan's Hospital for the purpose of providing such accommodation.
Delinquent adolescents in need of psychiatric treatment pose a special problem, the solution of which will involve new legislation. My Department and Dublin Health Authority are considering the matter, including steps which might be taken in advance of legislation.