Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
924. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Health her plans to extend community eating disorder services such as a facility (details supplied), particularly in areas with minimal services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3593/26]
View answerThe National Clinical Programme on Eating Disorders has progressed well with 16 of the 16 teams envisaged by the Model of Care now funded. The HSE spends over €10 million on eating disorders services annually. As a result, access to eating disorder services is increasing, with 25% more assessments conducted in 2024 compared to 2023 (562 vs 449).
Approximately 110 dedicated eating disorder clinicians from the National Clinical Programme are now working on the teams across the country, treating people with eating disorders every day. Enhancement for specialist mental health services including eating disorders is a key priority for myself as Minister, the Government as a whole, and the Health Service Executive (HSE).
Our current focus is on completing and implementing the existing Model of Care and supporting the rollout of additional teams. Once this is complete, an evaluation will be undertaken, after which the Model of Care will be reviewed by the HSE.
More recently, the HSE report on inpatient bed capacity required for eating disorders was forwarded to the Department for consideration in July 2025.
In addition, as Minister I secured funding from Budget 2026 for two new eating disorder teams. This will assist more people with an eating disorder requiring access to specialist eating disorder mental health services.
With reference to the specific information requested on the National Clinical Programme on Eating Disorders, as this is an operational issue, I have referred it to the HSE for direct reply to you.
