Social Democrats Housing Spokesperson and Dublin Bay North TD, Cian O’Callaghan, has expressed alarm at funding cuts for the access community mental health team for the homeless.
In reply to a parliamentary question, the HSE confirmed that funding for this service has fallen by €87,122 (or 13%) in the last two years.
Deputy O’Callaghan said:
“The cuts to mental health services for people that are homeless are alarming. Over the last two years, funding for the access community mental health team for the homeless has been cut by €87,122 or 13%. This is utterly unacceptable.
“The ongoing housing crisis is impacting on many people’s mental health. It is particularly acute for those that are homeless or suffering from addiction and who have complex needs. Those who are homeless and vulnerable need our care and support now more than ever. To provide this care we need well-resourced services.
“I’m calling on the Minister for Health and the HSE to restore the funding to these services as a matter of urgency.”
July 28, 2020