I propose to take Questions Nos. 596 and 597 together.
The National Clinical Programme on Eating Disorders has progressed well with all of the 16 teams envisaged by the Model of Care now funded. The HSE spends over €14 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 over 100 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. Accordingly the recommendations for enhanced bed capacity for eating disorders has been included in the National Development Plan.
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.
