Mark Ward
Question:
822. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Justice her plans to provide a multi-agency mental health crisis de-escalation team that will include members of An Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21754/21]
View answer
I have requested a report on the information sought by the Deputy from An Garda Síochána, unfortunately the report was not to hand in time. I will write to the Deputy on receipt of the report.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to Parliamentary Question Number 822 which was for answer on 28 April 2021, where you asked about my plans to provide a multi-agency mental health crisis de-escalation team that will include members of An Garda Síochána. You will recall that the information could not be obtained in the time available and I undertook to consult with An Garda Síochána and contact you again when the information was available.
As you will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is by law responsible for the management and operations of An Garda Síochána, including operations with other state agencies. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
The Garda Commissioner advises me that a pilot mental health crisis intervention team is being prepared in Limerick Garda Division. This pilot project is in line with the recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing, which recommended the creation of a specialist uniform unit who will work conjointly with health professionals to provide a rapid and integrated 24/7 response to persons with mental health issues.
The Commissioner further advises me that this pilot project is being progressed in close collaboration with the HSE, and will include the creation of a crisis intervention team and specific training for members of this pilot team. It is hoped to begin the rollout of this pilot team early next year.
I trust this information is of assistance.
