Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 December 2013
15. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will require the Health Service Executive to urgently revisit its plans for the reconfiguration of mental health services in Galway-Roscommon, in view of the many concerns raised, particularly the need to maintain the services provided at the 22 bed unit at Ballinasloe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54117/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraMental health services in HSE West, including the single administrative unit of Galway/Roscommon, has been resourced to implement A Vision for Change. This requires modernising the service in this particular area, to provide better outcomes for both patients and staff. In this context, existing resources in Galway/Roscommon need to be re-shaped, and the priority is to achieve this in line with similar re-configurations undertaken, or planned, elsewhere nationally.
In light of the above, a detailed assessment was carried out by HSE West, to reconfigure mental health services in Galway/Roscommon. An Expert Group applied an open and transparent scoring system to assess the merits of all locations and the most appropriate skill mix for service delivery. On foot of the conclusions of the Expert Group, I accept the Executive's recommendation to bring about much needed re-configuration of mental health services in this region.
Community mental health services in this area will be enhanced on a transitional and phased basis, bearing in mind that at least some staff from St.Brigid's in Ballinasloe will transfer to new community based provision. Flexibility exists within overall HSE West mental health resources to deliver on this objective.
HSE West has established an Implementation Team, including both patient and staff representation, to engage in appropriate consultation to progress this initiative and to address any outstanding local concerns. The Team has held a number of briefings and meetings to-date, including with the Mental Health Commission, Ballinasloe Town Council, and HSE staff. In conjunction with relevant officials, I also recently met with a delegation of local public representatives, care professional and union representatives concerning re-configuration of services across Galway/Roscommon. I am satisfied that the approach being taken by the HSE to improve future mental health services for this area is the best option, taking account of all relevant policy and resource issues.
