College of Psychiatrists of Ireland note a step backwards for mental health in Budget 2024

THE COLLEGE of Psychiatrists of Ireland has dismissed Budget 2024 as a ‘backward step’ for the provision of mental health treatment in Ireland.

The college notes that the current level of funding and resourcing would lead to increased doctor burnout and, ultimately, negative impacts on patients.

Speaking today, Dr Lorcan Martin, President of the College of Psychiatrists and a consultant in general adult psychiatry, said: “Before the Budget, the College warned that a detailed plan for doctor recruitment and retention and significantly increased funding were urgently needed to give patients the care they need. Regrettably, on World Mental Health Day, the Government has not delivered in this Budget, and ultimately this will be seen as a backward step for the provision of mental health treatment in this country.”

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Lorcan continued; “The College is disappointed to note that mental health funding has not increased in line with our recommendations, and meaningful connections between psychiatry and primary services have not been established. We still await the introduction of a modern IT and electronic patient record system, and the government has not re-established the role of Mental Health Director and the Mental Health Division to include the current Clinical Lead for CAMHS and Youth.”