asked the Minister for Health if any decision has been made as to the future status of psychiatric nurses who successfully complete the occupational therapy course in St. Joseph's College, Dún Laoghaire; and if he is now in a position to state when the post of occupational therapist will be created and given to each nurse concerned.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Psychiatric Nurses.
134.
The question of the arrangements for utilising the services of psychiatric nurses who complete successfully the courses in occupational therapy being conducted at St. Joseph's College, Dún Laoghaire, under the auspices of the National Organisation for Rehabilitation, is under consideration in my Department.
It is hoped that a decision will be reached in the near future.
135.
asked the Minister for Health if it is his intention to introduce new regulations regarding the duties of psychiatric nurses, having regard to the fact that the Mental Hospitals (Officers and Servants) Order, 1946, is obsolete; and if before the introduction of new regulations he will have a consultation with the trade unions representing psychiatric nurses for the purpose of obtaining their point of view.
Mr. O'Malley
The regulations relating to the duties of all medical and nursing staff of district mental hospitals are being examined with a view to revision. I shall bear in mind the Deputy's wishes before new regulations are introduced in regard to the duties of psychiatric nurses.
136.
asked the Minister for Health if his Department have given any consideration to the proposals made by some psychiatrists employed in certain mental hospitals in the State for the integrating of male and female patients and staff in mental hospitals; and if, bearing in mind the hazards which such a change would bring about, he will arrange for representatives of his Department to discuss this serious matter with the trade unions who represent psychiatric nurses.
Mr. O'Malley
I understand that this matter has already been raised at the Mental Hospitals Joint Industrial Council and that it has been agreed that a sub-committee, composed of 5 representatives of each side, should be appointed to examine the matter.
If, following consideration of the matter by the council mentioned, the Deputy is not happy about the matter, perhaps he would get in touch with me.