Blog
Minister of State, Ms Mary Butler T.D., addresses Psychiatrists.
- April 25, 2024
- Posted by: Harry Kearns
- Category: Blog
Minister of State, Ms Mary Butler T.D, attended a reception to officially open the newly built College offices (mews) and the refurbished main building.
Ms Mary Butler T.D cut the ribbon on the front door to formally open the College buildings with a garden party on Tuesday 23rd April. The building, on 5 Herbert Street, has undergone a complete renovation and this was an occasion to show members the newly designed interior.
During her speech, Minister Butler thanked all the psychiatrists present for the essential work they do each day and for maintaining services through COVID-19. She noted 85% of the services were maintained during COVID. She underlined how hard is she working to help develop the crucial mental health services in Ireland.
She spoke about the increases in mental health funding that have been introduced since she came into office and of her hope that she can continue to bring more improvements. She highlighted the importance of talking more about suicide in Ireland and the need to encourage more men to avail of mental health services. She noted that Irish men die by suicide far more than women and use mental health services far less than women.
She gave updates on positive developments in mental health services and her focus on building supports for young people. She expressed her intention to design Youth Hubs that would function as a ‘one stop shop’ for young people and create a ‘tailored plan’ for those in need of support. Increases to the services for early intervention for psychosis and for adult ADHD were mentioned.
College President Dr Lorcan Martin thanked Minister Butler for her ongoing commitment to developing mental health services and for the close relationship she has established with the College. Minister Butler referenced a productive meeting she had with the College in February, and she said she looked forward to continuing working with the College.
The Georgian building now includes more rooms and new technology suitable for training and meetings. Members are always welcome to use the College for meetings and can book a room at info@irishpsychiatry.ie.
Dr Lorcan Martin, President, College of Psychiatrists of Ireland, and Ms. Mary Butler, Minister of State for Mental Health, T.D.
Ms. Mary Butler, Minister of State for Mental Health, T.D.
Dr Amir Niazi, Ms. Mary Butler T.D, Dr Anthony McCarthy (former president) and Dr Lorcan Martin, President, College of Psychiatrists of Ireland.
Dr William Flannery (former president), Dr Maeve Doyle, Dr Lorcan Martin, Ms. Mary Butler T.D, and Dr Peter Leonard.