Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 24 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 5

Written Answers. - Commencement of Legislation.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

269 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the Acts and provisions of Acts for the commencement of which an order or decision of the Government is required which have not been commenced by reason of the fact that such an order or decision has not been made; the plans there are for the making of such an order or decision in each case; if so, when such an order or decision will be made; the reason for the failure in each case to make such an order or decision to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23042/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

The following is the information requested by the Deputy.

Section 50, subsection (7) of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland Act, 1998 (No. 29 of 1998) has not yet commenced. My Department has received legal advice that this subsection is inappropriate to this section and should be revoked. Consequently, it is my intention to revoke this subsection when an opportunity arises to amend the Food Safety Authority of Ireland Act, 1998.

The Health (Mental Services) Act, 1981, was not brought into force as its provisions were overtaken by provisions in international law which require different safeguards against improper detention than those provided under the Act. The Mental Health Bill, 1999, currently before the Oireachtas will provide for such safeguards and will repeal the Health (Mental Services) Act, 1981.

The provisions of Section 47(1) of the Health Act, 1970, regarding appeals were not brought formally into effect but procedures have been operating informally in all health boards.