asked the Minister for Health if he will consider amending the Mental Treatment Act, 1945, and the Health (Mental Services) Act, 1981, to specify more precisely the criteria for civil commitment such as compulsory detention in a mental hospital.
Written Answers. - Mental Health Legislation.
46.
I have already indicated to the House that I propose to introduce new legislation to replace all the existing Acts governing the psychiatric services. I am not clear as to what the Deputy means by "civil commitment such as compulsory detention". My view is that admission to a psychiatric hospital, if it is necessary at all, should be solely on medical grounds and should not revert to a judicial process.