Mental Health Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 October 2004

Thursday, 7 October 2004

Questions (201)

Denis Naughten

Question:

201 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will approve and implement the recommendation of the Inspector of Mental Hospitals to merge the Roscommon and east Galway mental health services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23941/04]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

In his annual report for the year ended 31 December 2003, the Inspector of Mental Hospitals stated that "a case could be made for the amalgamation of the East Galway and Roscommon services". However, the amalgamation of these services was not included as part of the inspector's overall recommendations.

I understand that the western board has established a number of working groups to consider various aspects of the modernisation of mental health services in east Galway. The working groups are examining a range of issues and it is anticipated that a business plan setting out future service developments will be prepared by year end.