Mental health Bill advances to next stage

MENTAL health services have been put to the top of the Government agenda after proposals passed another hurdle.

Fianna Fail’s Mental Health Amendment, which was unopposed in the Dail when it passed the second stage on Thursday, has also progressed through committee level.

The Bill will now move on to the fourth and final stages and is expected to be completed in weeks.

James Browne, the party’s mental health spokesman said: “We must do more to protect the well-being of patients and ensure the State meets its obligations under International Human Rights Law.

“I am hopeful this Bill will act as a catalyst for change.”