CAMHS waiting lists
Deputy Ward highlighted record CAMHS waiting lists, too few beds and children with complex needs falling through the cracks. Minister Butler said recruitment was under way, there was no moratorium on key posts, and most new mental health posts would go to CAMHS.
Yesterday, I hosted Families for Reform of CAMHS. What we learned is that, under this Government's watch, CAMHS waiting lists have reached a record high, CAMHS beds have reached a record low, and children with intellectual disabilities and mental health problems are falling through the cracks. Children with dual diagnosis of mental health issues and autism are being passed from pillar to post and children with ADHD are waiting far too long for treatment. Families for Reform of CAMHS informed us that the mental health of 92% of children deteriorates while they are waiting for a referral to be processed and the mental health of 74% of children deteriorates while they are waiting for an appointment. One parent said that fighting for her son to get support has broken them as parents and they cannot even imagine how their son feels.
Despite the Taoiseach's earlier response to Deputy McDonald, there is a recruitment embargo in CAMHS. Such is the concern about this embargo, the Psychiatric Nurses' Association is balloting its members. Will the Government lift this embargo immediately because children just cannot wait any longer?
Comment on this
I thank Deputy Ward very much for his question. To reiterate what the Taoiseach said already, while there is a moratorium in some areas, as the Deputy is aware, there is no moratorium on consultants or newly recruited trained nurses. This year, 130 whole-time equivalents will be recruited into mental health services, with 80% of them predominantly going into CAMHS. There is no moratorium in this regard. This is recurring funding, which means it will be in place again next year.
I met with the HSE and Department two weeks ago. Recruitment is under way and we will continue to work to do everything we can to strengthen all 76 CAMHS teams throughout the country. However, it is fair to point out as well that last year CAMHS teams allocated 225,000 appointments to young people the length and breadth of the country. I understand there are some difficulties with children who have dual diagnosis but we are working hard to try to make sure the pathways are clearer.