Edward Timmins
Ceist:83. Deputy Edward Timmins asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to expand resources in mental health services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5036/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 22 January 2026
Ceisteanna (83)
Freagraí scríofa
The total allocation for mental health services in 2026 is nearly €1.6 billion, which is the sixth year in a row in which the mental health budget has been increased.
This increase in funding for mental health services represents a significant investment which will enable continued policy implementation and service improvement in line with our national mental health policy, Sharing the Vision, and our national suicide and self-harm reduction strategy Connecting for Life, across a broad continuum from mental health promotion, prevention and early intervention, through to specialist mental health services.
This year’s budget provided the opportunity to focus on investing in crisis support and suicide prevention; youth mental health and CAMHS, and expanding the National Clinical Programmes.
As occurs each year following the Budget, discussions will now take place with the HSE on details relating to specific service initiatives in the context of preparing the HSE Service Plan 2025, including that for Mental Health.
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.