Parliamentary Question: Central Mental Hospital Survey

25th February 2003

442. Ms McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the important survey on the psychiatric profile of prisoners currently being carried out by the Central Mental Hospital excludes mentally ill prisoners with severe personality disorders; the reason his Department does not take institutional responsibility for those mentally ill with personality disorders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5555/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The study referred to in the question is being independently conducted by the Central Mental Hospital and is being facilitated by the Irish Prison Service. The purpose of the study is to assess the mental health needs of prisoners and it is expected that it will identify mentally ill prisoners with severe personality disorders. The focus of the study is on establishing the current and projected psychiatric treatment and rehabilitation needs of those currently in prison who should, more appropriately, be treated in hospital at the Central Mental Hospital or in other psychiatric hospitals, including security needs and any identified treatment needs.