Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 April 2016
402. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health why the ring-fenced €35 million additional moneys for mental health in 2016 has not yet been released, given that a quarter of the year is now past; the intended use of this promised sum in 2016; when he will release the moneys; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6491/16]
View answerThe HSE National Service Plan 2016 identifies priorities for the allocation of the €35 million, including the continued development of early intervention and prevention counselling services by mental health and primary care as well as improved provision of psychotherapeutic interventions and children with mental illness. The Department of Health is currently examining proposals from the HSE relating to the development of these specific enhanced priority services, as well as proposals for the ongoing development of a range of existing and new specialist mental health services. It is expected that a decision on the release of the funding will be made shortly.
