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On Monday, 11th November 2024, the Equality, Rights, and Social Inclusion Research Cluster hosted two events in partnership with Mental Health Reform at the University of Galway. These events provided valuable insights into the Mental Health Bill 2024 and created a platform for meaningful dialogue about mental health priorities ahead of the General Election.

The evening began with a seminar titled “Understanding the Proposed Changes to Mental Health Law”, where attendees heard about into the key legislative changes proposed in the Mental Health Bill 2024.  Speakers Dr. Charles O’Mahony from the School of Law, University of Galway, and Ber Grogan, Policy and Research Manager at Mental Health Reform, explored the implications of these proposed changes.

Following the seminar, the Mental Health Hustings brought together General Election candidates and community members for an engaging discussion on mental health priorities. Attendees shared their concerns and aspirations for mental health policy, while candidates outlined their commitments to improving services and increasing funding for mental health services.

During the hustings, Mental Health Reform outlined their key policy asks for the new government, emphasising the need for:

Leadership

• The creation of a Super Junior Ministry for Mental Health and Wellbeing.
• Establishing a Joint Oireachtas Committee on Mental Health and Wellbeing.
• Appointing a HSE National Lead for Mental Health alongside Regional Mental Health Leads.

Investment

• Allocating 10% of the overall health budget to mental health by 2030.
• Resourcing the implementation plan of the national mental health policy, Sharing the Vision.

Legislation

• Commencing and operationalising the reforms contained in the Mental Health Bill 2024 with a greater focus on human rights protection for people subject to mental health law.