Bernard Allen
Question:608 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received a copy of the report of the Health Research Board (details supplied); and the steps he proposes to take on the report. [1400/01]
Written Answers. - Health Research Board.
I have received a copy of the report "Irish Psychiatric Services – Activities 1999" which was published by the Health Research Board. One of the report's findings was that there were differences in admission rates to psychiatric hospitals reflecting variations in practice and in the availability and usage of beds. Significant progress has been made since 1984 in transforming the mental health services, moving away from a hospital-based model to one based in the community. However, the pace of change has varied in different parts of the country and this is reflected in the differences in admission rates.
Approximately £150 million capital will be provided for the development of Mental Health Services over the lifetime of the national development plan to accelerate the development of community based services. This funding will go towards the development of acute psychiatric units linked to general hospitals; new mental health centres; day hospitals and other day facilities; and additional community-based residential accommodation.
Additional revenue funding of £18.6 million was allocated to the mental health services for the current year, most of which will be to provide additional medical, paramedical and nursing support staff and to facilitate improvements in psychology and social work services.