asked the Minister for Health what progress has been made in the preparation of legislation to amend the Health and Mental Treatment Acts in accordance with the recommendations of the Commission on Mental Illness which were made in 1967 and in relation to which heads of a Bill were in preparation in February, 1970; and whether in view of the changing attitudes to emotional illness it is intended to introduce legislation at an early date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Health and Mental Treatment Acts.
7.
Owing to pressure of other work, it has not been possible to finalise plans for new legislation. I hope, however, to have the matter dealt with in the coming months. While I accept that changes in the existing law are very desirable I do not accept that there is need for emergency legislation.
Could the Minister say when he is likely to issue a White Paper?
I am not sure what kind of memoranda will be issued in advance but I would say that we should be able to bring legislation before the House some time during the next session.