Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 May 2004
50 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the claim made in a study produced by a person (details supplied) that lack of adequate security in psychiatric hospitals was placing staff in a vulnerable position; the steps he intends to take to deal with this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15585/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the research referred to by the Deputy. While specific security threats and risks in psychiatric hospitals are an issue for local managers and health professionals to deal with, as Minister for Health and Children I am concerned about the reported rise in violence and aggression towards all health care workers. My Department has supported research into the development of a multi-disciplinary approach to the management of actual and potential aggression across all health care settings in the North Eastern Health Board. This pilot programme on work related violence has examined issues of prevalence, training and staff support. A critical component is the provision of training to all staff in the clinical skills and safe management of potentially violent individuals. This can be used as a template for best practice in the future.
In the mental health services, the Mental Health Commission, established in April 2002, will be the main vehicle for the implementation of the provisions of the Mental Health Act 2001. The principal functions of the Mental Health Commission shall be to promote, encourage and foster the establishment and maintenance of high standards and good practices in the delivery of mental health services. The commission may introduce or review specified policies, protocols and procedures relating to the welfare of patients and residents.
Under the provisions of the Mental Health Act 2001, the Commission has appointed Dr. Teresa Carey to the position of inspector of mental health services. A team of assistant inspectors has also been appointed. The inspector has indicated that she expects to commence a programme of inspections of mental health facilities from June 2004. The inspector is required to visit and inspect all approved centres at least once a year and report to the Minister for Health and Children on the quality of care and treatment given to persons in receipt of mental health services.
