Bernard Allen
Question:585 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the parts of the Health (Mental Services) Act, 1981 which were implemented. [22087/01]
Written Answers. - Implementation of Legislation.
The provisions of the Health (Mental Services) Act, 1981, were not brought into force for a number of reasons. The general thrust of the Act has been superseded by the developments in the psychiatric services, particularly since the publication of the report, Planning for the Future, in 1984 and its adoption as policy by successive Governments. In addition, developments in international law required different safeguards against improper detention than those provided for in the 1981 Act.
The new Mental Health Act, 2001, significantly improves safeguards for involuntary patients in a more comprehensive way than did the 1981 Act and brings Irish mental health law in this area into conformity with the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.