asked the Minister for Health if he has received a memorandum (details supplied) in respect of medical staffing and conditions in mental hospitals in Ireland; and, if so, the action he proposes to take on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mental Hospital Staffing.
16.
The memorandum has been received and is being examined. I cannot say what further action I will take until this examination has been completed.
The Minister will appreciate how important this is in the context of the staffing of these mental hospitals and that a real emergency exists. In view of the attractions abroad for psychiatrists, could I ask him if he would give further consideration to this matter?
I can assure the Deputy that the memorandum was submitted only about two weeks ago and urgent examination is being made of it. I should like to say that I have had some information on the memorandum and it does go into some detail with regard to shortage in approved staffing establishments but while there is a shortage I am informed that it is not a serious shortage. As a matter of fact, although it is no consolation to us, it would appear that our position in regard to the staffing of a sort of institution is somewhat better than it is in most European countries and somewhat better than the position in Great Britain.