Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 July 2025
2100. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the status of the implementation of the recommendations of the high level task force to consider the mental health and addiction challenges of those who come into contact with the criminal justice sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43331/25]
View answerThe High Level Task Force (HLTF) on Mental Health and Addiction published their final report in September 2022. The report identified where further improvements can be implemented in order to enhance the treatment available to those with mental health and addiction difficulties within the criminal justice system. It outlined 61 recommendations to be implemented from 2022 to 2027.
The First Annual Progress Report of the HLTF was published in February 2024 covering September 2022–September 2023.
The Second Annual Progress Report covering the period September 2023 - September 2024 was published on Monday 28 July 2025: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/publications/high-level-taskforce-on-mental-health-and-addiction-1st-annual-progress-report-september-2022-2023/
The key developments cited in the progress report include:
• Roll out of Mental Health First Aid training to AGS members nationally.
• Development of the Community Access Support Team (CAST) pilot project in the Limerick Garda Division.
• Publication of the First Progress Report on the Irish Prison Service Health Needs Assessment (HNA).
• Progress in developing a pilot Dual Diagnosis service in Cork Prison.
• The launch of the Mental Health Engagement Framework 2024 – 2028.
Work continues, to monitor and further progress the recommendations of the HLTF.
