Breeda Moynihan-Cronin
Question:273 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Health and Children when he will publish a charter of rights for psychiatric patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15833/98]
Written Answers. - Mental Health Legislation.
Breeda Moynihan-Cronin
Question:292 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Health and Children when he will introduce the mental health Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16131/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 273 and 292 together.
A new mental health Bill is currently being prepared with the assistance of the Office of the Attorney General. It is my intention to introduce the proposed new mental health legislation to both Houses of the Oireachtas at the earliest possible date. This legislation will provide greater safeguards to protect the right of those with mental disorder who need to be detained for treatment and will bring Irish legislation into conformity with international law. The new legislation will include an inspectorate system which will be responsible for monitoring the quality of care of patients in the mental health services. The publication of a charter of rights for patients in the mental health services will be considered following the introduction of the other protective measures provided for in the new legislation.