12 May 2004

Voice of Psychiatry not being heard
on Expert Group on Mental Health Policy

The Irish College of Psychiatrists is concerned that the work of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy is continuing without the input of the three clinically active appointed Consultant Psychiatrists.

In a recent letter to Minister Martin, Dr Kate Ganter said, “Dr Justin Brophy, Dr Mary Kelly and Dr Colette Halpin are all Consultant Psychiatrists appointed to the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy by Minister O’Malley. As you are aware there is non-participation by Members of the IMO and IHCA on Ministerial appointed committees”

The letter went on to say, “Professor Joyce O’Connor has continued to convene the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy without the participation of clinically involved psychiatrists. This would appear very short-sighted for the development of policies without the input of practising psychiatrists. I am aware that the Consultants involved requested Professor O’Connor to desist from the continuation of this process until there was a resolution of the Clinical Indemnity Scheme as an industrial relations issue”

The Irish College of Psychiatrists has asked the Minister to intervene on this important matter as the present situation means that the voice of Irish Psychiatry is not being heard as part of the deliberations of the Expert Group.