asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) of an incident at the Central Mental Hospital, Dundrum, Dublin, when two patients staged a protest about a number of grievances; and if he will comment on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Central Mental Hospital.
8.
I have seen the report referred to by the Deputy. While they were in the grounds of the Central Mental Hospital on 22nd instant two patients climbed a tree and refused to come down. In view of the possible dangers no attempt was made to remove them by force. One patient came down voluntarily that night. The second patient came down voluntarily the following night.
I am advised that one patient was protesting against his transfer to the Central Mental Hospital from Mountjoy; the other was protesting because he was not transferred back to St. Patrick's Institution.
The condition of these and other patients in the hospital is kept under continual review. If they are regarded as suitable for transfer from the hospital the necessary steps are taken.