Further youth mental health services needed for Sligo/Leitrim- McLoughlin

Fine Gael TD for Sligo/Leitrim, Tony McLoughlin, has called for further youth mental health services for the region.

Speaking in the Dáil yesterday (Weds) Deputy McLoughlin told Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People Helen McEntee that improved resources are also needed for Sligo/Leitrim’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services to reduce waiting times.

Deputy McLoughlin asked the Taoiseach for an update on the progress of the delivery of recommendations in A Vision for Change- the policy framework for mental health services.

Deputy McLoughlin said: “I ask this because, as I am sure he is aware after his meeting with Sharon Boles last week during his visit to Sligo, we urgently need a Jigsaw-like youth mental health service established in Sligo and Leitrim.

“We need improved resources for our Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, CAMHS, in the region to reduce long waiting lists and the appointment of a lead consultant psychiatrist for this service as a matter of urgency.”

Deputy McLoughlin continued: “I was pleased to hear confirmation from the Taoiseach that he sent a note to the Minister of State with responsibility for mental health services, Deputy McEntee, arising from the meeting he had in Sligo with myself and Sharon in respect of several queries about facilities for mental health in the Sligo area.”

“He also confirmed that the process of appointment of a consultant will be worked on by the HSE.”

“Deputy McEntee also advised me that 80% of the recommended positions have been implemented on a Vision for change, and several other positions have been approved pending staff. Five more Jigsaw facilities will open this year and there will be a be a new process for other counties to put themselves forward for more of this kind of facility.”

ENDS