merrion street

Minister for Mental Health Jim Daly TD today welcomed the publication of the report on the Evidence Review of A Vision for Change, along with the appointment of the Chair for the Oversight Group to oversee the next stages of the review, Mr Hugh Kane. 

Minister Daly commented, "The appointment of Mr Hugh Kane as Chair of the Oversight Group and the publication of this report are significant milestones. They mark this Government’s continued commitment to improving our mental health policy, and to ensuring that any decisions and developments are held to international standards. A Vision for Change was a progressive document that is still held in high esteem; however we must continue to look forward if we are to provide the most effective support to those who need it. "
A Vision for Change came to the end of its 10-year term in 2016 and preparations for a review and updating of policy have been underway since early last year. In September 2016, an external evidence and expert review was commissioned from WRC Consultants as the first step in determining the parameters of a revision of A Vision for Change. This review was completed on 17 February 2017, and provides evidence to determine the policy direction for a revision of A Vision for Change, both in terms of international best practice and the experience of implementing A Vision for Change. The report covers the following main topics:
· Mental Health Situation, Policy and Services in Ireland today
· Prioritising Mental Health as a major Societal Issue
· Primary Prevention and Positive Mental Health
· Recovery, Social Inclusion and Living Well with Mental Illness
· Mental Healthcare Provision
· Mental Health System Governance and Financing
Minister Daly also welcomed the appointment of Mr Hugh Kane as the Chair for the Oversight Group. This Group will oversee the development of a new policy for mental health based on the outcome of the Expert Review. Mr Kane has over 40 years’ experience working in personal social services including the HSE and the Mental Health Commission, and most recently held the post of Director of Operations at the social enterprise organisation Genio. He also contributed to the development of Connecting for Life, the national strategy to reduce suicide in Ireland 2015-2020, as a member of the Strategic Planning Oversight Group. Further members of the Oversight Group will be appointed over the coming weeks. The policy review process will also involve consultation with key stakeholders.