Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2022
670. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update when the report on the audit into CAMHS by the Mental Health Commission will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59033/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the independent report of the review of care provided by South Kerry CAMHS (The Maskey Report) made findings regarding significant failings across multiple levels of the system and made 35 recommendations to improve service delivery. The Government and the HSE are committed to implementing the recommendations as quickly as possible. 17 (National and Local) actions have already been implemented with others having commenced implementation.
Arising from the Maskey Report, the HSE is progressing the three national audits currently underway in relation to CAMHS. These audits cover the areas of prescribing practice, CAMHS Operational Guidelines, and Qualitative Research into Service User experience.
In addition, the Mental Health Commission, which is an independent agency, is carrying out its own review of HSE CAMHS. I understand that the Commission has completed its review in five CHOs , with the review in a further CHO now underway. Reviews have yet to commence in three CHOs. I understand also from the HSE that where concerns have been escalated by the Commission to HSE Community Operations – Mental Health, the National Office has taken immediate action to engage with the Commission and relevant CHOs to clarify and resolve any concerns.
It is matter for the Mental Health Commission, which is an independent agency, to decide on the specific issue raised by the Deputy. The Deputy can rest assured, however, that I will continue to closely monitor progress on all audits in relation to the CAMHS service.
