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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 7 Jun 2000

Vol. 520 No. 4

Written Answers. - Hospital Admissions.

Liz McManus

Question:

93 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will give an assurance that patients involuntarily admitted to psychiatric hospitals are admitted in accordance with the relevant legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15809/00]

There are two main categories of patients received into psychiatric hospitals or units – voluntary patients and involuntary patients.

Some 90% of those admitted to psychiatric hospitals or units are voluntary patients. They are admitted with the minimum of formality. A written application for voluntary admission is completed. Involuntary patients are those who have to be compulsorily admitted and detained for their own safety or for the safety of others. Under the Mental Treatment Act, 1945, there are two categories of involuntary patients, a temporary patient and a person of unsound mind. The procedures for admission of each category are set out in the Act.

The Mental Health Bill, 1999, which was published in December last, will amend existing legislation for the admission of patients to psychiatric hospitals and units. The new legislation will provide a modern framework for the care and treatment of persons with a mental disorder and will bring our legislation in this area into line with the European Convention on Human Rights.

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