Mental Health Services Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 November 2017

Thursday, 9 November 2017

Questions (181)

James Browne

Question:

181. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health if a strategic plan or nursing strategy will be developed for mental health nursing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47484/17]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

The development of all aspects of mental health policies and services, including that relating to nursing, remains a priority for both the Government, and the HSE. The HSE has statutory responsibility for the planning and delivery of mental health services, particularly in the context of priorities agreed under its Annual Service Plan. A strategic priority under its Service Plan 2017 relates to the provision of mental health services by highly trained and engaged staff. As this is an operational matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Executive for direct reply.