Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 May 2004
76 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made with regard to the implementation of the Mental Health Act 2001; if he will list those sections brought into operation and those that still remain to be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15589/04]
View answerThe main vehicle for the implementation of the provisions of the Mental Health Act 2001 is the Mental Health Commission, which was established in April 2002. To facilitate the establishment of the commission, sections 1 to 5, 7 and 31 to 55 of the Act were commenced at that time. The commission's primary function is to promote and foster high standards and good practices in the delivery of mental health services and to ensure that the interests of detained persons are protected.
Under the provisions of the Mental Health Act 2001, the commission has appointed Dr. Teresa Carey to the position of inspector of mental health services. A team of assistant inspectors has also been appointed. The inspector has indicated that she expects to commence a programme of inspections of mental health facilities from June 2004.
The detailed work programme of the commission is a matter for the commission itself to determine, in accordance with its statutory functions under the Mental Health Act 2001. However, the commission's strategic plan for 2004 to 2005 indicates that one of the priorities for the commission is to put in place the structures required for the operation of mental health tribunals, as provided for in Part 2 of the Act. This year, additional funding of €3 million is available to the commission for this purpose. The commission is currently in discussion with my Department, the health boards and other relevant agencies to ensure that all elements of the organisational and support systems required are in place prior to the commencement of Part 2 of the Mental Health Act 2001.
I understand that the Mental Health Commission expects Parts 4, 5 and 6 of the Mental Health Act 2001 to be commenced simultaneously with Part 2 of the Act.
