Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 March 2022
535. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Health if he will expand the south Kerry child and adolescent mental health service, CAMHS, review to facilitate the inclusion of an assessment of long-term harm, the ongoing disclosure of families and patients involved, the findings of the whistleblower and input from non-consultant hospital doctor one; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12592/22]
View answerThis matter is of the upmost importance to me and the following are the steps I have taken in response to the report to satisfy myself, service users, and their families, with the standard of CAMHS services in general across the country, in the most timely and independent manner.
The full nationwide audit of compliance with existing CAMHS operational guidelines by all CAMHS teams is specific to CAMHS. I have written to the HSE to direct them to commence it immediately.
As well as this audit, the HSE is finalising the details of the further independent-led audit of case files in North Kerry.
I am in ongoing discussions on the independently-led prescribing audit for each of the CAMHS teams, which I sought as an additional action, beyond the recommendations set out in the Maskey report. It is important to me that this audit is comprehensive and robust. It will cover community and inpatient teams and it will be independently led.
I have also requested that the CAMHS Experience Study by the HSE commence immediately so that no further time is lost.
The HSE committed to implementing the 35 recommendations of the Maskey report as quickly as possible. 6 have already been implemented with 13 having commenced implementation. It is a priority for me, and for Government, that all recommendations of the report are implemented as quickly as possible, including those relating to the specific issues raised by the Deputy.
In addition to these audits, the Mental Health Commission has commenced a separate review.
Finally, the Government has committed to a non-adversarial scheme for compensation for those children, young people and families affected by the report and the details of the operation of such a scheme are being finalised.
I am in regular contact with the HSE locally and nationally regarding supports for the children and young people involved. I met with a group representing the families last week when they travelled from Kerry. The HSE has assured me that it is in ongoing direct communication with the families. This follows the HSE writing to all of the young people to let them know what the review found in their care; meetings between families and the HSE to discuss the care deficits they received; and a verbal and written apology for any harm caused. Families and young people affected can still meet with the HSE, if they did not wish to previously, and the HSE helpline remains available.
