Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2018
460. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the way in which he plans to implement the recommendations set out in the national youth mental health task force report for 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4509/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra461. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the way in which his Department plans to create an independent advocacy and information service aimed at young persons' mental health as outlined in the national youth mental health task force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4510/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra462. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the way in which his Department plans to commence training programmes to help recognise signs of mental issues as outlined in the national youth mental health task force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4511/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 460 to 462, inclusive, together.
The National Youth Mental Health Task Force was established in response to an undertaking in the Programme for Partnership Government. The Task force was asked to produce a series of action-focused recommendations and its report was published in December.
The report made recommendations in 10 different themed areas. It also identified lead agencies associated with each recommendation that would be tasked with developing and/or implementing these as appropriate.
Specifically, the development of an advocacy service for young people with mental health issues has been tasked to the Pathfinder Youth Mental Health group. Final approval for this pathfinder group is currently being sought, but it is envisioned that it will be established in the first quarter of this year.
Under the recommendation relating to Awareness and Training, the HSE has agreed to take responsibility to develop these recommendations throughout the first half of 2018.
