Mental Illness And Contact With The Criminal Justice System To Be Examined

The Irish government has set up an interdepartmental group to examine the issue of people with mental illness coming into contact with the criminal justice system.

This is in line with the recommendation of the Thornton Hall Project Review Group.

While there have been a number of positive developments since the Thornton Group reported, including the decision by this Government to proceed with a new replacement for the Central Mental Health Hospital, nevertheless the interaction between the mentally ill and the criminal justice system gives rise to particular concerns and a complete review of the area is needed.

The Interdepartmental Group includes representatives from the Department of Justice and Equality and the Department of Health as well as relevant services including the H.S.E, the National Forensic Mental Health Service, the Garda Síochána and the Irish Prison Service and is jointly chaired by both Departments.

(GK)