Written Answers Nos. 191-219
191. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to list all staff/management exit packages for staff/management in their Departments that they sanctioned since 2016 (details supplied).; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11154/24]
View answerI confirm that exit packages were not sanctioned for staff other than payments to Ministerial staff. Such arrangements would be in accordance with central guidance from DPER.
192. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth whether it is intended to provide dedicated integration funding to an area (details supplied) in view of the large number of people seeking international protection living in the area and the proposal to locate further refugees there and the disadvantaged nature of the area based on the Pobal Index; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11171/24]
View answerWith respect to integration and funding, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that a new local integration model has been developed in collaboration with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH), the City and County Management Authority (CCMA) and the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA). The model centres on a new national network of four-person Local Authority Integration Teams (LAITs), funded by DCEDIY, to be located in each local authority, to better help IP applicants engage with existing local services.
The teams will provide supports to International Protection (IP) applicants, Programme Refugees and Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs). This includes funding for one Integration Support Coordinator, two Integration Support Workers and one Administrative support. Recruitment for the LAITs is being undertaken by individual Local Authorities and Galway City Council now has their team fully in place.
Under the European Social Fund 2021-2027 funding has been allocated by the Department to recruit dedicated practitioners to support families living in International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) accommodation. Adopting a multiagency, multidisciplinary approach, these practitioners will provide a standardised pathway for family support within each of the 17 Tusla areas. Supports will vary depending on the needs of each individual family but may consist of delivering individualised parenting programmes and family support clinics or facilitating the integration of families by building connections with Family Resource Centres in the locality.
My Department administers a number of funding streams addressing integration.
In the last two years €2.8m has been made available through the International Protection Integration Fund to community-based organisations to carry out integration projects at a national, provincial or local level. A further €1.5m will be provided in 2024 and the application process for this year's fund is currently open and closing on the 6th March 2024. Information on the fund and access to apply can be found at www.gov.ie/en/press-release/58b8b-minister-of-state-joe-obrien-invites-applications-to-the-international-protection-integration-fund-2024/.
A new funding stream was introduced in 2023 for the Children and Young People’s Services Committees (CYPSC) to support them in further developing, enhancing and expanding the provision of their support services to families in IPAS accommodation. In 2023, over €1.3m was awarded for a range of initiatives including projects aimed at Community Integration, Supports for Parents, Emergency Accommodation and Mental Health. This funding stream has been committed to again in 2024 and a call for proposals was launched in January.
The purpose of the National Integration Fund (NIF) is to support communities across Ireland to play a greater role in promoting the integration of migrants at a national or regional level. Approximately €750,000 is committed per year, subject to the availability of funds. This funding can be used for both once-off initiatives and projects rolled out over a maximum of three years. Projects must take an inclusive approach, aiming to bring migrants and host communities together.
Under Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) 2021-2027, Ireland will build on the work done of the previous AMIF 2014-2020, and improve its effectiveness where possible. The programme will also support elements of state-run programmes, both at national and local level, which provide integration measures tailored to the needs of third-country nationals. A Call for Proposals from organisations planning projects to support the reception and integration of Third Country Nationals in Ireland was launched in October 2023.
The Integration and Employment of Migrants (IEM) stream under the European Social Fund Plus is aimed at legally resident migrants who are experiencing barriers to participation and employment because of language difficulties, lack of training, or social exclusion.
193. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if Tusla carries out any inspections or audits to ensure compliance with child protection rules where children are accommodated in refugee or IPAS accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11185/24]
View answerInspections of IPAS accommodation is an operational matter for Tusla and as such I have referred the question to Tusla for direct response to the Deputy.
Outlined below is measures in place within IPAS to ensure Centre compliance with requirements of Children First legislation and national guidance.
When an accommodation centre is opened, a designated member of the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) is responsible for monitoring the centre’s adherence with requirements of Children First legislation and national guidance. This member also ensures that centre managers are categorised as Designated Liaison Persons under Children First, and notifies them that they are required to make mandatory reports of concerns relating to children resident in their centres.
The designated member also monitors the centre’s adherence with requirements of the Children First legislation and national guidance. Where centres have not submitted their Child Safeguarding Statement to the Compliance Unit, they are asked by IPAS to submit the Statement and compliance letter to IPAS when complete.
IPAS also provides specific briefings on the IPAS Child Protection Policy and Practice Guide to staff at accommodation centres. All staff in accommodation centres where children and families are accommodated are required to complete the Tusla online Children First eLearning course, and to obtain a certificate of completion for the course.
IPAS has been engaging with Tusla in respect of its report entitled ‘Child Safeguarding Statement Sector Compliance Review: International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS)’ which was developed by the Child Safeguarding Statement Compliance Unit (CSSU) in August 2023. Following significant engagement by the CSSU, all statements reviewed were deemed compliant. The report only considered statements from non-emergency settings. IPAS will continue to engage with Tusla in respect its report’s findings and recommendations and to continuously promote and improve child safeguarding practices in all accommodation settings.
194. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health to respond to concerns raised (details attached); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10840/24]
View answerADHD has long been recognised as one of the most common psychiatric disorders in children and it is now known to persist into adulthood. Core symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
It can cause many issues in areas such as personal and social relations, education and occupation, managing money and organising life in general. There is also an increased risk of having other mental health difficulties with it such as anxiety and depression.
Children can access ADHD assessments through the National Educational Psychological Service. In addition to this, as per the CAMHS Operational Guidelines, CAMHS take referrals for children and adolescents up to age 18 with moderate to severe ADHD.
I am aware that prior to the inception of the National Clinical Programme for Adults with ADHD which I launched in 2021, there were no specific ADHD public services available for Adults in Ireland.
The National Clinical Programme for ADHD is delivered as part of the HSE’s mental health service provision to ensure an integrated, person-centred response to adults with ADHD. The programme includes both assessment and treatment of the disorder and works collaboratively with voluntary agencies. It envisages a national service of ADHD teams, with each Team comprised of Consultant Psychiatrist, Senior Psychologist, Senior Occupational Therapist, Clinical Nurse Specialist Mental Health, and an administrator.
Enhancement of specialist mental health services such as ADHD is a key priority for myself as a Minister, the Government as a whole and the HSE. Since 2021, over €3 million has been made available for funding ADHD posts from Programme for Government funding. This has enabled the set-up of 5 ADHD Teams with recruitment of over 25 posts, and two more teams are currently in development with posts funded for them.
In addition, as part of the National Clinical Programme adults funding of €150,000 was allocated to facilitate a collaboration with ADHD Ireland and the UCD School of Psychology to develop an ADHD app and the UMAAP Programme (Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD Programme). Both the ADHD App and the UMAAP Programme have proven to be two very positive resources for people with ADHD.
The UMAAP Programme is delivered as a 5-week workshop, and its aim is to provide education and tools for adults on how to manage ADHD.
I am pleased to confirm that further to recent discussions between the Department of Health and the HSE to finalise 2024 mental health funding, ADHD Ireland will be provided with funding for provision of the UMAAP Programme in 2024 and beyond. I look forward to launching the UMAAP Programme in April as agreed with ADHD Ireland.
195. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health when a child in County Donegal (details supplied) can expect to receive an appointment for physiotherapy sessions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10869/24]
View answerUnder the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.
In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
196. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health the amount of funding provided to Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD Programme over the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10870/24]
View answerADHD has long been recognised as one of the most common psychiatric disorders in children and it is now known to persist into adulthood. Core symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
It can cause many issues in areas such as personal and social relations, education and occupation, managing money and organising life in general. There is also an increased risk of having other mental health difficulties with it such as anxiety and depression.
Children can access ADHD assessments through the National Educational Psychological Service. In addition to this, as per the CAMHS Operational Guidelines, CAMHS take referrals for children and adolescents up to age 18 with moderate to severe ADHD.
I am aware that prior to the inception of the National Clinical Programme for Adults with ADHD which I launched in 2021, there were no specific ADHD public services available for Adults in Ireland.
The National Clinical Programme for ADHD is delivered as part of the HSE’s mental health service provision to ensure an integrated, person-centred response to adults with ADHD. The programme includes both assessment and treatment of the disorder and works collaboratively with voluntary agencies. It envisages a national service of ADHD teams, with each Team comprised of Consultant Psychiatrist, Senior Psychologist, Senior Occupational Therapist, Clinical Nurse Specialist Mental Health, and an administrator.
Enhancement of specialist mental health services such as ADHD is a key priority for myself as a Minister, the Government as a whole and the HSE. Since 2021, over €3 million has been made available for funding ADHD posts from Programme for Government funding. This has enabled the set-up of 5 ADHD Teams with recruitment of over 25 posts, and two more teams are currently in development with posts funded for them.
In addition, as part of the National Clinical Programme adults funding of €150,000 was allocated to facilitate a collaboration with ADHD Ireland and the UCD School of Psychology to develop an ADHD app and the UMAAP Programme (Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD Programme). Both the ADHD App and the UMAAP Programme have proven to be two very positive resources for people with ADHD.
The UMAAP Programme is delivered as a 5-week workshop, and its aim is to provide education and tools for adults on how to manage ADHD.
I am pleased to confirm that further to recent discussions between the Department of Health and the HSE to finalise 2024 mental health funding, ADHD Ireland will be provided with funding for provision of the UMAAP Programme in 2024 and beyond. I look forward to launching the UMAAP Programme in April as agreed with ADHD Ireland.
197. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health if he will continue funding the Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD Programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10871/24]
View answerADHD has long been recognised as one of the most common psychiatric disorders in children and it is now known to persist into adulthood. Core symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
It can cause many issues in areas such as personal and social relations, education and occupation, managing money and organising life in general, there is also an increased risk of having other mental health difficulties with it such as anxiety and depression.
Children can access ADHD assessments through the National Educational Psychological Service. In addition to this, as per the CAMHS Operational Guidelines, CAMHS take referrals for children and adolescents up to age 18 with moderate to severe ADHD.
I am aware that prior to the inception of the National Clinical Programme for Adults with ADHD which I launched in 2021, there were no specific ADHD public services available for Adults in Ireland.
The NCP for ADHD is delivered as part of the HSE’s mental health service provision to ensure an integrated, person-centred response to adults with ADHD. The programme includes both assessment and treatment of the disorder and works collaboratively with voluntary agencies. It envisages a national service of ADHD teams, with each Team comprised of Consultant Psychiatrist, Senior Psychologist, Senior Occupational Therapist, Clinical Nurse Specialist Mental Health, and an administrator.
Enhancement of specialist mental health services such as ADHD is a key priority for myself as a Minister, the Government as a whole and the HSE. Since 2021, over €3 million has been made available for funding ADHD posts from Programme for Government funding. This has enabled the set-up of 5 ADHD Teams with recruitment of over 25 posts, and two more teams are currently in development with posts funded for them.
In addition, as part of the National Clinical Programme adults funding of €150,000 was allocated to facilitate a collaboration with ADHD Ireland and the UCD School of Psychology to develop an ADHD app and the UMAAP Programme (Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD Programme). Both the ADHD App and the UMAAP Programme have proven to be two very positive resources for people with ADHD.
The UMAAP Programme is delivered as a 5-week workshop, and its aim is to provide education and tools for adults on how to manage ADHD.
I am pleased to confirm that further to recent discussions between the Department of Health and the HSE to finalise 2024 mental health funding, ADHD Ireland will be provided with funding for provision of the UMAAP Programme in 2024 and beyond. I look forward to launching the UMAAP Programme in April as agreed with ADHD Ireland.
198. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Health the reason Government is now choosing to unilaterally end the Covid-19 related special leave scheme and is refusing to work with unions to agree on a replacement that can provide the necessary level and duration of support while frontline healthcare workers remain unable to return to work due to long-Covid. [10876/24]
View answerIn the public health sector, a temporary Special Scheme has been in place since July 2022 to provide special leave with pay for eligible staff in respect of Long Covid.
This temporary Special Scheme has been extended a number of times, most recently in October 2023, when the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP and Reform granted a final extension, permitting the Special Scheme to run until 31st March 2024.
DPENDPR's sanction to extend the Scheme to that date was contingent on the sanction being the final sanction that would be provided, and as such the Special Scheme will conclude on 31st March.
Employees impacted by the conclusion of the Special Scheme received an individual notification of this from their employer last week, as well as notification that any employee remaining unwell after that date, may utilise the full provisions of the Public Service Sick Leave Scheme which will provide further financial support.
The sick leave scheme provides full pay for three months, followed by half pay for three months, and after that, Temporary Rehabilitative Remuneration may be applied for, which, if granted, provides up to a further 547 days of paid leave. The Critical Illness Protocol that forms part of the sick leave scheme may also provide extended financial supports if granted.
199. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health for an update on project (detail supplied); the timeline for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10879/24]
View answerAs the Health Service Executive (HSE) holds responsibility for the provision, along with the maintenance and operation of Primary Care Centres, I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
200. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Health the progress made by the HSE in their discussions with an organisation (details supplied) concerning a partnership to provide a service in the south Tipperary area; if the business plan on the same proposal submitted to the HSE by the organisation has been considered; to provide an update on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10880/24]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
201. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health when information requested by a person (details supplied) will be provided; the expected date for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10902/24]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
202. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Health if he, in consultation with the HSE, will reconsider the decision to cease funding the Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD Programme currently delivered by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10906/24]
View answerADHD has long been recognised as one of the most common psychiatric disorders in children and it is now known to persist into adulthood. Core symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
It can cause many issues in areas such as personal and social relations, education and occupation, managing money and organising life in general, there is also an increased risk of having other mental health difficulties with it such as anxiety and depression.
Children can access ADHD assessments through the National Educational Psychological Service. In addition to this, as per the CAMHS Operational Guidelines, CAMHS take referrals for children and adolescents up to age 18 with moderate to severe ADHD.
I am aware that prior to the inception of the National Clinical Programme for Adults with ADHD which I launched in 2021, there were no specific ADHD public services available for Adults in Ireland.
The NCP for ADHD is delivered as part of the HSE’s mental health service provision to ensure an integrated, person-centred response to adults with ADHD. The programme includes both assessment and treatment of the disorder and works collaboratively with voluntary agencies. It envisages a national service of ADHD teams, with each Team comprised of Consultant Psychiatrist, Senior Psychologist, Senior Occupational Therapist, Clinical Nurse Specialist Mental Health, and an administrator.
Enhancement of specialist mental health services such as ADHD is a key priority for myself as a Minister, the Government as a whole and the HSE. Since 2021, over €3 million has been made available for funding ADHD posts from Programme for Government funding. This has enabled the set-up of 5 ADHD Teams with recruitment of over 25 posts, and two more teams are currently in development with posts funded for them.
In addition, as part of the National Clinical Programme adults funding of €150,000 was allocated to facilitate a collaboration with ADHD Ireland and the UCD School of Psychology to develop an ADHD app and the UMAAP Programme (Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD Programme). Both the ADHD App and the UMAAP Programme have proven to be two very positive resources for people with ADHD.
The UMAAP Programme is delivered as a 5-week workshop, and its aim is to provide education and tools for adults on how to manage ADHD.
I am pleased to confirm that further to recent discussions between the Department of Health and the HSE to finalise 2024 mental health funding, ADHD Ireland will be provided with funding for provision of the UMAAP Programme in 2024 and beyond. I look forward to launching the UMAAP Programme in April as agreed with ADHD Ireland.
203. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that without HSE funding a pastoral centre that provides counselling to people, including a family member of a victim of the Creeslough tragedy, is to close in two weeks; if the HSE plans to prevent this closure from happening; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10926/24]
View answerI welcome the statement from HSE Mental Health Services released on 8 March confirming that, following meetings with the HSE, Tusla and the Raphoe Diocesan Counselling Services, an interim funding proposal has been agreed by all parties.
This proposal addresses the immediate issues that were highlighted by the Raphoe Counselling Service and it ensures the delivery of the Raphoe Diocesan Counselling Services for the foreseeable future.
The HSE looks forward to continuing to work in collaboration with TUSLA and the Raphoe Diocesan Counselling Services to meet the needs of service users.
204. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health the reason the Government has not provided support for immediate family members of victims of the Creeslough tragedy who live outside Creeslough; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10931/24]
View answerI welcome the statement from HSE Mental Health Services released on 8 March confirming that, following meetings with the HSE, Tusla and the Raphoe Diocesan Counselling Services, an interim funding proposal has been agreed by all parties.
This proposal addresses the immediate issues that were highlighted by the Raphoe Counselling Service and it ensures the delivery of the Raphoe Diocesan Counselling Services for the foreseeable future.
The HSE looks forward to continuing to work in collaboration with TUSLA and the Raphoe Diocesan Counselling Services to meet the needs of service users.
205. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health if he will urgently address an anomaly in the retirement system, whereby a retiree from the HSE must apply for jobseekers for a nine-month period prior to receiving a suitable pension. [10933/24]
View answerAs this is an administrative matter for the Health Service Executive, the HSE has been asked to respond directly to the Deputy.
206. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health he status of hearing aids for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10947/24]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
207. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Health if he will advise why there is no pathway available to access diagnostic assessments for autism via primary care services in County Roscommon; if he will outline what plans are being put in place to provide same going forward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10970/24]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
208. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Health if he will advise the reason there is no service available to access diagnostic assessments for ADHD (adult) in County Roscommon; if he will outline what plans are being put in place to provide this service going forward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10971/24]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
209. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Health to explain the reason the HSE is to withdraw funding for UMAAP in 2024 given there are more than 160,000 adults in the State with ADHD, and this new organisation is playing a crucial role in providing support and guidance to them, with over 1,000 adults to date benefitting from its six-week programme and monthly support groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10972/24]
View answerADHD has long been recognised as one of the most common psychiatric disorders in children and it is now known to persist into adulthood. Core symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
It can cause many issues in areas such as personal and social relations, education and occupation, managing money and organising life in general, there is also an increased risk of having other mental health difficulties with it such as anxiety and depression.
Children can access ADHD assessments through the National Educational Psychological Service. In addition to this, as per the CAMHS Operational Guidelines, CAMHS take referrals for children and adolescents up to age 18 with moderate to severe ADHD.
I am aware that prior to the inception of the National Clinical Programme for Adults with ADHD which I launched in 2021, there were no specific ADHD public services available for Adults in Ireland.
The NCP for ADHD is delivered as part of the HSE’s mental health service provision to ensure an integrated, person-centred response to adults with ADHD. The programme includes both assessment and treatment of the disorder and works collaboratively with voluntary agencies. It envisages a national service of ADHD teams, with each Team comprised of Consultant Psychiatrist, Senior Psychologist, Senior Occupational Therapist, Clinical Nurse Specialist Mental Health, and an administrator.
Enhancement of specialist mental health services such as ADHD is a key priority for myself as a Minister, the Government as a whole and the HSE. Since 2021, over €3 million has been made available for funding ADHD posts from Programme for Government funding. This has enabled the set-up of 5 ADHD Teams with recruitment of over 25 posts, and two more teams are currently in development with posts funded for them.
In addition, as part of the National Clinical Programme adults funding of €150,000 was allocated to facilitate a collaboration with ADHD Ireland and the UCD School of Psychology to develop an ADHD app and the UMAAP Programme (Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD Programme). Both the ADHD App and the UMAAP Programme have proven to be two very positive resources for people with ADHD.
The UMAAP Programme is delivered as a 5-week workshop, and its aim is to provide education and tools for adults on how to manage ADHD.
I am pleased to confirm that further to recent discussions between the Department of Health and the HSE to finalise 2024 mental health funding, ADHD Ireland will be provided with funding for provision of the UMAAP Programme in 2024 and beyond. I look forward to launching the UMAAP Programme in April as agreed with ADHD Ireland.
210. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health to clarify the number of redundancies, or so called ‘exit-packages’, that have been paid to staff or personnel at any level of seniority in his Department, or in any agency or body under the aegis of his Department, from 2018 to date; the value of each and the total value, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10988/24]
View answerAs provided for in the DPENDR Instructions to HR Managers on Ministerial Appointments, Severance and redundancy payments made by the Department of Health have been made to Ministerial personal staff who have not been appointed by way of secondment or leave of absence from other employments and who, therefore, have no job to which they are entitled to return to on cessation of office of the relevant Minister or Minister of State.
Details of payments made and the numbers who received payments in the relevant years are set out below
|
Year |
No in receipt of payments |
Severance |
Redundancy |
|
2018 |
0 |
€0.00 |
€0.00 |
|
2019 |
0 |
€0.00 |
€0.00 |
|
2020 |
9 |
€184,618.27 |
€67,904.00 |
|
2021 |
0 |
€0.00 |
€0.00 |
|
2022 |
2 |
€12,274.66 |
€0.00 |
|
2023 |
2 |
€13,446.62 |
€6,996.00 |
I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy on this matter. The information in respect of the Non-Commercial State Agencies has been sought, and once collected and collated, this will be provided to the Deputy by separate cover.
211. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health to schedule a hospital appointment for a person (details supplied).; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11000/24]
View answerUnder the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.
In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
212. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Health how many doctors are being investigated by the Irish Medical Council or any other body under the responsibility of his Department; and his plans to investigate the 82% of Irish healthcare workers who have declined a Covid vaccine or a Covid booster since last September. [11004/24]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, the Medical Council is the independent statutory body which regulates medical practitioners in Ireland and one of the Council’s functions is to investigate complaints against registered medical practitioners. In 2023 the Medical Council received 353 complaints relating to 391 doctors across a range of complaint categories. A total of 61 complaints were referred for a Fitness to Practise Inquiry in 2023 and 49 inquiries concluded during the year.
Each complaint received by the Council is unique and investigated as such based on the facts and evidence available. The length of an investigation varies and is dependent on a number of factors such as the complexity of the complaint, availability of relevant documents, number of patients and/or doctors involved, requirement for expert reports and availability of such experts.
In relation to the Deputy’s query regarding vaccination, it is important to note that vaccination is not mandatory for healthcare workers in Ireland. Risk assessment processes were in place previously in respect of unvaccinated staff working in the public health service who were required to engage with vulnerable or high-risk patients. Vaccination offers an extra level of protection for all of us, particularly those who are vulnerable and I would encourage all of those working in the health services to take up vaccinations, where available.
213. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health to respond to matters raised in correspondence (details supplied); the reason funding was withdrawn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11005/24]
View answerADHD has long been recognised as one of the most common psychiatric disorders in children and it is now known to persist into adulthood. Core symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
It can cause many issues in areas such as personal and social relations, education and occupation, managing money and organising life in general. There is also an increased risk of having other mental health difficulties with it such as anxiety and depression.
Children can access ADHD assessments through the National Educational Psychological Service. In addition to this, as per the CAMHS Operational Guidelines, CAMHS take referrals for children and adolescents up to age 18 with moderate to severe ADHD.
I am aware that prior to the inception of the National Clinical Programme for Adults with ADHD which I launched in 2021, there were no specific ADHD public services available for Adults in Ireland.
The National Clinical Programme for ADHD is delivered as part of the HSE’s mental health service provision to ensure an integrated, person-centred response to adults with ADHD. The programme includes both assessment and treatment of the disorder and works collaboratively with voluntary agencies. It envisages a national service of ADHD teams, with each Team comprised of Consultant Psychiatrist, Senior Psychologist, Senior Occupational Therapist, Clinical Nurse Specialist Mental Health, and an administrator.
Enhancement of specialist mental health services such as ADHD is a key priority for myself as a Minister, the Government as a whole and the HSE. Since 2021, over €3 million has been made available for funding ADHD posts from Programme for Government funding. This has enabled the set-up of 5 ADHD Teams with recruitment of over 25 posts, and two more teams are currently in development with posts funded for them.
In addition, as part of the National Clinical Programme adults funding of €150,000 was allocated to facilitate a collaboration with ADHD Ireland and the UCD School of Psychology to develop an ADHD app and the UMAAP Programme (Understanding and Managing Adult ADHD Programme). Both the ADHD App and the UMAAP Programme have proven to be two very positive resources for people with ADHD.
The UMAAP Programme is delivered as a 5-week workshop, and its aim is to provide education and tools for adults on how to manage ADHD.
I am pleased to confirm that further to recent discussions between the Department of Health and the HSE to finalise 2024 mental health funding, ADHD Ireland will be provided with funding for provision of the UMAAP Programme in 2024 and beyond. I look forward to launching the UMAAP Programme in April as agreed with ADHD Ireland.
214. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the current waiting times for people to access the regional fertility hubs; if he will outline the average waiting time for each regional fertility hub for each step along the process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11006/24]
View answerThis PQ is being referred to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy as it relates to a service delivery matter.
215. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the plans to introduce a new complaints process for CAMHS in view of concerns with the current procedure (details supplied); if this will be provided for in the new Mental Health (Amendment) Bill 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11007/24]
View answerThe Mental Health (Amendment) Bill 2023 was introduced by Deputies Ward and Cullinane and seeks to amend section 33 of the existing Mental Health Act 2001 to provide two additional functions to the Commission. The 2023 Bill, as written, does not include any provisions in relation to complaints mechanisms for people accessing mental health services, nor does it seem to provide for its stated goal of extending the Mental Health Commission's regulatory powers to include all community mental health services.
The Government proposed a 9-month timed amendment to the Bill, which was approved by Dáil Eireann, to allow for issues contained in the Bill to be further examined, in consultation with Deputies Ward and Cullinane.
A Government Mental Health Bill is currently in its final months of drafting. The Bill will introduce a comprehensive, legally robust regulatory framework for all community mental health services, including CAMHS, similar to the existing regulation of inpatient mental health services.
Under the existing Mental Health Act and the 2006 Approved Centre Regulations made thereunder, all approved centres (i.e., inpatient services) must have a clear complaints process that people accessing services can avail of. The Government Mental Health Bill will extend the requirement that all mental health services ensure that there is a complaints system in place, either inpatient or community.
In line with the 2006 Regulations, each approved centre must have a complaints procedure in place, such as the HSE’s ‘Your Service, Your Say’ service, the same as general health services. I further note that 'Your Service, Your Say' is available to anyone accessing HSE mental health services, be that on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Following the investigation of the complaint by the HSE, an individual may request an internal review to be carried out by the HSE, if they are not happy with the outcome. Furthermore, in cases where the complainant is not satisfied with the response to their complaint, they can request an external review from the Office of the Ombudsman, or in the case of child and adolescent services, the Office of the Ombudsman for Children. This option is available to anyone who accesses our public health services, be it mental health services or otherwise.
The Programme for Government commits to improving all aspects of Youth Mental Health, including CAMHS, in line with Sharing the Vision, our national mental health policy and with Connecting for Life, our national strategy to reduce suicide. Budget 2024 provided record funding of over €1.3 billion for Mental Health this year, including for enhanced mental health supports to those under age 18. This will be reflected also in the HSE Service Plan 2024.
The HSE is a key stakeholder in the implementation of the recommendations of Sharing the Vision and sits on the National Implementation Monitoring Committee for the implementation of the 100 policy recommendations. Good progress is being made on the detailed Implementation Plan 2022 – 2024, overseen by the Committee. HSE National Mental Health Services is committed to further developing an advocacy service that will ensure service users are empowered to lead in their own care. Currently, advocacy services are available to all HSE adult inpatient acute units provided by ‘Peer Advocacy in Mental Health’ (formerly known as the Irish Advocacy Network). While the need for independent advocacy services across CAMHS has been acknowledged for some time, the Maskey review has highlighted the need for improved independent advocacy services to both community teams and inpatient settings nationally.
In conjunction with the HSE, the Youth Advocacy Programme (YAP) provide advocacy in CAMHS services in Galway (inpatient and community), at the Linn Dara in-patient unit in Dublin and in Cork/Kerry (inpatient and community services from January 2023). Advocacy recently commenced in the remaining CAMHS inpatient unit in North Dublin. Discussions are underway to further expand Advocacy services to CAMHS Community services in 2024 and beyond.
Drafting of the Government Mental Health Bill has been prioritised and it is now in its final month of drafting. I look forward to introducing to the Oireachtas shortly.
216. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health the number of exit and or severance and or redundancy packages granted by his Department, and bodies under his aegis, and of bodies he funds in full or in part, of €200,000 and above in the years 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and to date in 2024; and if he will provide the amount of same, body, name and year. [11017/24]
View answerAs provided for in the DPENDR Instructions to HR Managers on Ministerial Appointments, Severance and redundancy payments made by the Department of Health have been made to Ministerial personal staff who have not been appointed by way of secondment or leave of absence from other employments and who, therefore, have no job to which they are entitled to return to on cessation of office of the relevant Minister or Minister of State.
For the years 2019 to date in 2024 the Department of Health have not had exit, redundancy or severance packages of €200,000 or above.
I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy on this matter. The information in respect of the Non-Commercial State Agencies has been sought, and once collected and collated, this will be provided to the Deputy by separate cover.
217. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Health the services being provided from a centre (details supplied). [11030/24]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
218. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Health the cost of legal fees incurred by the HSE on behalf of Southdoc in each of the past five years, in tabular form. [11034/24]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
As the Deputy may be aware, management and administrative grade staff in the Fórsa union in the HSE commenced industrial action on Friday, 6 October. As a consequence of this industrial action, members in these grades are not engaging with political forums or processes. As a result, the question asked by the Deputy may be delayed in receiving a response directly from the HSE.
219. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Health if the HSE have financially supported Southdoc in legal fees; and to outline this support in each of the past five years, in tabular form. [11035/24]
View answerAs this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
As the Deputy may be aware, management and administrative grade staff in the Fórsa union in the HSE commenced industrial action on Friday, 6 October. As a consequence of this industrial action, members in these grades are not engaging with political forums or processes. As a result, the question asked by the Deputy may be delayed in receiving a response directly from the HSE.
