Mental Health Bill 1999

Public bill · Government · Presented

The measure sets rules for admitting and detaining people with a mental disorder in approved centres without their consent, but not solely because they have a personality disorder, are socially deviant or misuse drugs or alcohol. It requires independent reviews by mental health tribunals, access to legal representation and appeals, while giving priority to the person’s interests, dignity, privacy and autonomy. It also establishes the Mental Health Commission and an Inspector to oversee services, inspect centres and protect detained patients, and sets safeguards for treatment, restraint, seclusion and centre standards.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to provide for the involuntary admission to approved centres of persons suffering from mental disorders, to provide for the independent review of the involuntary admission of such persons and, for those purposes, to provide for the establishment of a Mental Health Commission and the appointment of Mental Health Commission Tribunals and an Inspector of Mental Health Services, to repeal in part the Mental Treatment Act, 1945, and to provide for related matters

Last updated 12 April 2018