3962. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Health the number of people waiting to access each discipline within psychiatry of later life teams, broken down by discipline, HSE health region and integrated healthcare area; the number waiting less than six months, six-12 months, one to two years, two to three years, three to four years, four to five years and more than five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58299/26]

4017. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Health the number of people waiting to access each discipline within psychiatry of later life teams, by discipline, HSE health region and integrated healthcare area; the number waiting less than six months, six-12 months, one to two years, two to three years, three to four years, four to five years and more than five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58572/26]

I propose to take Question No 3962 and Question No 4017 together.

Enhancement of specialist mental health services including mental health services for older people is a key priority for myself as Minister, the Government , and the HSE.

Mental health policy is guided by Sharing the Vision the national mental health policy , which promotes tailored, community-based services for older adults and better integration between primary care and specialist mental health teams. Over 30 Psychiatry Later Life Teams are currently in operation in the community, and the Model of Care for Specialist Mental Health Services for Older People (2019) is being implemented, with five demonstration sites delivering liaison psychiatry services have established. Expansion of these services is ongoing, with additional teams planned based on identified needs and staffing gaps. Under Budget 2026, I have funded two additional teams for this Programme.

With reference to the specific information requested, as this relates to a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply to you.