Appointed Government Chief Whip
24 January 2025
Mental Health gets voice at Cabinet
Waterford TD, Mary Butler, has been appointed Government Chief Whip by Taoiseach Micheál Martin. She will also serve as Minister of State attending Cabinet with responsibility for Mental Health.
Speaking on her appointment, the Waterford Minister stated: “It is the honour of my life to serve in this role and it wouldn’t have been possible if the people of Waterford hadn’t put their faith in me since 2016.
“Sitting in Áras an Uachtaráin for the first Cabinet meeting last night was a pinch yourself moment. It is hard to put it into words and describe the feeling when you arrive, and the President is there waiting for you. The memories of the formal ceremony in which I was presented to the President as the Government Chief Whip are ones which I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.
“I’m delighted to be Chief Whip. It’s a role I’ve been interested in throughout my time in national politics and one which I always felt I’d love the opportunity to do. The Office is essentially charged with ensuring the Dáil business of the day runs smoothly so that Ministers and Deputies can conduct their work freely and efficiently.
“I’ll oversee setting the schedule of business to be taken in the Dáil, managing and tracking the progress of the Government legislative programme, and provide support to the Taoiseach in respect of Dáil business.”
Minister Butler continued: “I’m also very proud to say that I played a role in elevating Mental Health to the Cabinet Table for the first time ever. Mental Health will have a standalone voice at Cabinet, and I can finish my work on the Mental Health Bill, a more modern, person-centred approach to mental health legislation.
“As an added bonus of this appointment, I’ll still maintain a significant Ministerial presence at the Department of Health, meaning I can continue to push for and deliver expanded cardiac care services for Waterford and the South East.
“The progress made in recent years has taken a lot of time, patience, and persistence from stakeholders on all sides. I have no doubt my dogged determination as a Minister in the Department during the last Dáil term resulted in the major strides we’ve seen, such as a new state of the art cath-lab and the extension of hours to 8am-8pm, seven days a week.”
Minister Butler concluded: “People know how strong a voice I’ve been for Waterford since entering national politics in 2016. That will not change and in fact I can now advocate for our county at the Cabinet Table, sitting next to the Taoiseach.”
SETU launch new course for individuals with Intellectual Disabilities
Speaking at the event, Minister Butler stated: “I was delighted to attend South East Technological University (SETU) on Wednesday alongside my colleague Minister of State at the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Anne Rabbitte TD, for the launch of the new Certificate in Personal Development programme for people with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) with a celebration of the first cohort of students.
It was so heartwarming to hear participants speak of the great confidence they have gained since starting their studies and they joy they are experiencing through everyday student life. I think this initiative is a wonderful example of the boundless benefits we see when education and inclusivity are combined. It is really encouraging that the course will be extended to SETU’s Carlow and Wexford campuses, expanding access across the South East region.”
Visiting the HSE Mental Health services in Waterford
18 October 2024
The HSE today hosted the Minister of State at the Dept. of Health with Special Responsibility for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler TD on a visit today to some of its mental health service facilities in Waterford.
The Minister visited the Waterford Primary Care Centre in John’s Hill, where she heard an update on the operation of the Crisis Resolution Team and its associated Crisis Café project. Minister Butler then called to the Grangemore residential unit, which is situated on the grounds of St. Otteran’s Hospital and provides mental health care and rehabilitation to 14 residents. The Minister was also welcomed to Brook House, a mental health day services centre located on the Cork Road, Waterford.
Waterford Crisis Resolution Team (CRTs) and Crisis Café:
The HSE’s 2021 Operational Service Plan on Mental Health committed to the provision of five Crisis Resolution Teams (CRTs) and Crisis Cafes, as part of a phased development plan in line with “Sharing the Vision” to implement alternatives to acute inpatient care and Emergency Dept. presentations through integrated care. One of these CRTs commenced in Waterford in July 2023.
Based in Waterford Primary Care Centre, referrals to Waterford CRT are currently being accepted from Community Mental Health Teams, the Department of Psychiatry (inpatient unit on grounds of UHW) and Liaison Psychiatry.
The Solace Crisis Café forms part of a wider national initiative to develop and expand hours of mental health support in line with “Sharing the Vision: A Mental Health Policy for Everyone” and the national model of care for crisis resolution services. Following a recent tender process, the non-governmental organisation AWARE has been chosen by the HSE as the café provider in Waterford. Preparations are under way with the aim of having the Café operational in early 2025. The purpose of this service in Waterford will be to provide a free out-of-hours non-clinical and supportive community space for any adult experiencing a mental health crisis. The café will offer information and signposting to services and can also be accessed by family members and carers.
Grangemore:
For the fourth year running, the Mental Health Commission recorded a 100% compliance rate in its inspections of the HSE’s Grangemore residential unit.
Whilst visiting Grangemore, Minister Butler was delighted to see the collaboration (completed in 2023) involving the Waterford Healing Arts Trust (WHAT), the Waterford Walls project and local users of the mental health services. Under guidance of the HSE’s Rehabilitation and Recovery team members, working with Dublin based illustrator and mural artist Juliette Viodé, two colourful mural pieces (depicting scenery around the Metal Man maritime beacons in Tramore) were produced on external walls at Grangemore. This project is one of many activities that enhance the lives of those using Grangemore and impresses its visitors.
Brook House:
The HSE’s Brook House provides a variety of recovery focused programmes and activities. Referral to Brook House is through Community Mental Health Team. On receipt of a referral, the nursing staff in Brook House assess an individuals’ need and identify the appropriate group, activity and support. The Recovery Team based at Brook House includes Nurses, Counsellors, Health Care Assistants and other administrative and support staff.
Service users attending Brook House over the course of a week. Services provided there include individual nursing support, relapse prevention education, music group, visual arts, living well programme, liaison with voluntary bodies (e.g. AWARE, GROW, Mental Health Ireland and the MABS), Recovery College South East and access to Peer and Family Support Workers.
Ireland’s First Menopause in the Workplace Support Pack Launched by Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber
The Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber has made history by launching Ireland’s first-ever Menopause in the Workplace Employer Support Pack, sponsored by Merry’s Gastropub Dungarvan. This groundbreaking initiative, launched by Minister of State at the Department of Health, Mary Butler TD, puts the spotlight on a critical issue affecting the national workforce: menopause in the workplace.
With 30% of female employees experiencing the effects of menopause, and the expectation for businesses to soon be required to implement formal menopause policies, this comprehensive resource is timely and essential. It equips business owners, managers, and HR professionals with the knowledge to understand menopause's impact on staff performance, comfort, and overall well-being—ultimately fostering more inclusive and supportive workplaces.
Minister Mary Butler TD praised the Chamber’s leadership, stating: "I am honoured to launch Ireland's first Menopause in the Workplace Employer Support Pack. Menopause is often overlooked in workplace policies, despite affecting a significant portion of our workforce. This resource is a crucial step forward in creating understanding and supportive environments, helping women continue to thrive in their careers. I was also delighted to work with my colleague in the Department of Health, Minister Stephen Donnelly to secure free HRT for women in the recent budget."
A Department of Health survey recently found that 82% of adults believe menopause is poorly understood in the workplace, with 90% agreeing that employers need to better grasp the issue. Recognising this, the Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber is paving the way for positive change.
Oren Byrne, President of the Chamber, shared: “From our annual (award-winning) event, ‘Menopause – The Case for Change’, it was clear there was a hunger for real tools to support women at work. We are thrilled to have Minister Butler launch this resource, which is a game-changer for workplace wellness and inclusion.”
Emilene Stafford of Merry’s Gastropub, sponsor of the pack, emphasised: “We’re proud to back this groundbreaking initiative. Supporting inclusive workplaces is essential to the success and well-being of all employees. This pack will make a real difference, and we’re delighted to be part of this pioneering project."
The Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber recently won the Menopause Workplace Excellence Award 2024 for Best Small Business and was also named Chamber of the Year 2023/24, reaffirming its dedication to championing workplace equality and wellness across Ireland.
To view this pack see https://dungarvanchamber.ie/resources/
For more information about the D&WW Chamber visit www.dungarvanchamber.ie.
Launching stamps for Mental Health Awareness
Minister of State for Mental Health & Older People, Mary Butler, T.D. recently unveiled two special commemorative stamps from An Post, promoting mental health awareness.
The stamps issued ahead of World Mental Health Day, marked this week on October 10th.
Both stamps feature minimal, bright graphic images to symbolise the importance of nurturing good mental health, practicing self-care and fostering meaningful connections.
Minister for Mental Health & Older People, Mary Butler TD stated: “Any one of us can experience times in which life’s challenges can affect our mental health. It is so important to continue to speak about positive mental health and wellbeing, knowing that recovery is possible, and help is out there. I’m delighted welcome these two stamps from An Post as we mark World Mental Health Day on October 10th.
“This is a day which seeks to raise awareness around mental health, the everyday challenges people can face in coping with difficulties, and the supports available to them. The release of these stamps by An Post will bring great awareness to a really important day for us all and will help end the stigma in speaking openly about our mental health.”
One stamp features the R.O.S.E. model, created by Paula King, which includes key terms for taking about mental health in a positive way: Reason, Optimism, Self-Identity and Empowerment. The second tree-themed stamp illustrates the importance of access to nature, self-care and community for good mental health. Trees are also compelling symbols of growth and self-development.
The stamps are designed by Image Now along with a first day cover envelope. Both ‘N’ rate national stamps (€1:40 cover postage on the island of Ireland and are available in selected post offices nationwide and online at anpost.com/shop
Budget 2025 funding increases for Older People
Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, has announced increased funding for older peoples’ services in Budget 2025, with record funding for a fifth year.
The Waterford Minister stated: “I am pleased to have secured an additional €349 million for older people through this week’s Budget. Budget 2025 is the largest ever budget for older persons services with almost €3 billion allocated to maintain and further enhance older persons services in 2025.
“This includes nearly €122 million in additional funding for home support, bringing the total budget for home support hours for to approximately €830 million for 2025. Home support remains a huge priority for me as it is an essential daily service for thousands of people.
“It is highly valued by those that avail of these support services and their families because it enables older people to live independently and with dignity in their own homes for longer. This funding will allow for 24 million hours to support 60,000 people next year.
“I’ve also announced confirmation that a minimum of 20% of all new home support hours will be ringfenced for people with dementia.
Minister Butler continued: “€72 million will also be allocated to the Fair Deal scheme to support the nursing home sector to expand services and improve quality. Providing enhanced services for people with dementia continues to be a priority for me, and I have allocated an additional €2.3 million in funding to improve access to diagnostics and supports for people with dementia. This funding will provide six new consultant posts for Memory Assessment and Support Services.
“This brings the total new investment in dementia to €19 million since 2021. A further €300,000 has also been secured for weekend activity clubs for people with young onset dementia. Further funding to the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland will see an expansion of day care in the community and in the home and will also see the total number of dementia advisers nationwide increasing to 34”.
Minister Butler said: “I’m delighted to announce the new €10 million Nursing Home Residential Premises Upgrade (RPU) Scheme is designed to support nursing homes to improve their compliance with HIQA Regulations, to improve the quality of the “home” of the residents and to improve the working environment for employees in nursing homes.
“Up to €25,000 will be available to each qualifying nursing home for structural works to improve compliance with Regulation 17 (Premises).
“I’ve allocated funding to facilitate an increase in the provision of transitional care funding and transitional care complex funding by €37 million in 2025 to make sure that older people receive the care they need leaving hospital.
“€600,000 has also been allocated to further develop the Carers’ Guarantee and will help to provide a more standard package of supports to family carers in every region, in tandem with the community and voluntary sector.”
Record funding for Mental Health on Budget Day
Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, this week announced increased funding for mental health and older peoples’ services in Budget 2025, with record funding for a fifth year.
The Waterford Minister stated: “Under Budget 2025, I have secured an increase of €143.5 million in funding for mental health services. This brings total funding to nearly €1.5 billion today, an annual increase of 10.7% and a record funding level for the fifth year in a row.
“Mental health funding in Ireland has increased by 43.7% since I took office.
“€1.4 million has been secured for four new Adult ADHD teams, one of which will be based in Waterford City. So, for adults with ADHD, especially those without a diagnosis in Waterford, there will be top class supports available for them, once the team ins in place.
“In 2021, I launched a new model of care for adults with ADHD. About 40% of young people who attend CAMHS had ADHD, but there were no adult supports upon entering my post.
“A big priority for me coming into this brief was to try and ensure through these Budgets that we end this postcode lottery of where services are located. These four additional teams will allow us to establish a service in every area of the country and complete the rollout of this clinical programme with 11 teams in place nationally.
Minister Butler continued: “I’m also delighted to announce a dual diagnosis team for the South East, with details currently been finalised.
“Dual diagnosis teams are really important as they help people with mental health difficulties and addiction issues, so this will be an important service for people experiencing really difficult mental health challenges.
“In total €5.7 million is being provided national to further rollout the Mental Health National Clinical Programmes (NCP) with new teams for ADHD, Eating Disorders, Early Intervention in Psychosis, and Dual Diagnosis, and more staff for Mental Health Intellectual Disability and Psychiatry of Later Life.
“I have also secured 6 posts to compete the Adult Eating Disorder team located in Kilkenny, a vital service for CHO5, as Eating Disorders are one of the most serious Mental Health conditions”.
“It is really encouraging that €2.9 million secured for extra staff in CAMHS, an additional CAMHS Hub team and a CAMHS Emergency Department Liaison service. 51 additional CAMHS posts will be delivered nationwide.
These significant investments will improve access to child and youth mental health services and transitions to adult services”
Minister Butler concluded: A number of other positive announcements in the Mental Health Budget include €2 million to provide free counselling services for make GP Visit Card holders, €900,000 for suicide prevention, with initiatives to target men, expanded counselling for support young people, €900,000 to enhance Crisis Resolution Services, and €320,000 for Traveller Mental Health.
New Veterinary School for SETU
Waterford Minister for Mental Health & Older People, Mary Butler TD, has welcomed an announcement by her government colleague, Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue TD, of plans to deliver a new veterinary school at SETU.
SETU was confirmed alongside Atlantic Technological University (ATU) as one of the locations for two new veterinary schools announced at the Ploughing Championships this week.
Minister Butler stated: “This will provide students in Waterford and the South East with more opportunities to pursue veterinary studies without having to seek their education in Dublin or abroad.
"This is an exciting step forward for animal health and welfare, rural development and Irish agriculture. It is a huge vote of confidence by government in the South East and SETU, which is an ideal location for an important initiative to help respond to an established and growing need for veterinary practitioners.
“I also know how important this announcement is for farmers. There are often shortages of vets in rural and regional Ireland, particularly for large animals and the location of new vet colleges outside Dublin will support our rural communities in this respect.”
These veterinary colleges will require capital expenditure to get them up and running and €50 million in capital expenditure allocation will be made jointly by Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue and the Department for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
Minister Butler continued: “Waterford’s farmers and food producers depend on top-tier expertise to maintain the health and welfare of our livestock, which is essential to the quality and sustainability of our agri-food sector.
"This investment is not just a response to the growing demand for vets, but a recognition of the critical role that veterinary practitioners play in the health of our animals, the sustainability of our agrifood sector, and the well-being of society as a whole.
Minister Butler concluded: "By supporting the education of future veterinary practitioners, we are ensuring that Ireland remains resilient in the face of challenges, with the expertise required to protect our animals, our environment, and our rural communities.
“There was more positive news for agriculture this week as nationwide, Areas of Natural Constraints (ANC) payments totalling €184 million have issued to 87,149 farmers this, the highest level of advance payments to the most farmers ever achieved for the scheme. €2,573, 970 was issued to farmers in Waterford in ANC payments.”
Mental Health Bill
Minister for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler today welcomed the passage of theMental Health Bill 2024 through Second Stage in the Dáil, following constructive and positive debate from all sides.
Minister Butler looks forward to further debate and passage of the Bill through the Houses, and the ensuing enactment of the measures in this important Bill, which, along with our national mental health policy, Sharing the Vision, will provide robust legislative and policy frameworks for our mental health services.
The Waterford Minister stated “The Mental Health Bill is a really important piece of legislation and has been a key priority of mine since taking office. Endless hours of work and consultation have been undertaken to put in place a more person-centric mental health legislation that will further modernise, reform and protect the rights of people with mental health difficulties in the decades ahead”.
The Mental Health Bill 2024 is a complex and lengthy piece of legislation, with 202 sections, and is fundamental to improving the experience for individuals accessing mental health services.
Speaking about the new legislation, Minister Butler added: “Individuals receiving treatment under the Mental Health Bill 2024 will be empowered to play a more active role in making decisions about their care and treatment, and there will be closer alignment between the Mental Health Bill and the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Acts 2015 and 2022.
“Additional safeguards will also be put in place for individuals, such as additional safeguards on the use of restrictive practices, and provisions providing for the involvement of family members or carers in a person’s treatment in cases where the person has given their explicit consent.
“The Bill will also benefit all people who access a wide range of mental health services by introducing, for the first time, a comprehensive system of registration and regulation of community mental health services, including all community CAMHS”.
Minister Butler concluded by saying: “I am looking forward to engaging with the Oireachtas Committee on Health at Committee stage to progress the Bill further”.
Selected to contest General Election in Waterford for
Fianna Fáil
Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, has been selected as Fianna Fáil’s candidate to contest the next General Election in Waterford.
The Waterford selection convention was held at Lawlor’s Hotel in Dungarvan and was contested by Minister Butler and Councillor Adam Wyse.
There was a valid vote among members of 170, with a quota of 86. Minister Butler received 135 votes, exceeding the quota on the first count, while Cllr Wyse received 35 votes.
The convention was well attended and as a steady stream of delegates made their way and through the booths while voting was open between the hours of 6 and 8pm.
Upon conclusion of the voting, Chair of the convention, Billy Kelleher MEP, addressed the attendees. The convention was also attended Cllr Jason Murphy, Mayor of Waterford City and County Council and his Fianna Fáil colleagues Cllr John O’Leary, Cllr Tom Cronin and Cllr Eamon Quinlan.
Upon confirmation of her selection, Minister Butler thanked the party membership for their endorsement: “I also extend my heartfelt thanks to you, the FF members, here in the great county of Waterford, who have consistently placed your trust in me since the 2015 general election convention, which was also chaired by Billy Kelleher.
“My 10 years in politics has brought many firsts for me, but it is this support team, you the members, your dedication in canvassing, putting up posters, delivering leaflets which enabled me to have those firsts. Your trust, your support, and your belief in our shared vision for Waterford Fianna Fáil drive me every single day.
Minister Butler also spoke of her party’s work in Waterford: “Throughout my political career, one thing has remained clear: Waterford thrives under Fianna Fáil leadership. Time and again, we have demonstrated our commitment to the people of this great county, delivering real, tangible results that have made a difference in the lives of our citizens.
“It is no coincidence that when Fianna Fáil is in government, Waterford sees greater investment, stronger communities, and a brighter future. Those of you who joined me on the canvas trail in 2020 will recall that the top three concerns on the doorsteps were Cardiac Care, the University, and funding for the North Quays. I’m proud to say that we’ve made significant strides in addressing these issues.
“Together, we fought for and delivered a second cath lab at University Hospital Waterford. This facility is more than just a building; it represents lives saved, families kept whole, and a community that can access critical care when it is needed the most. The journey to secure this vital service was long and filled with challenges, but we never wavered, and today, it stands as a beacon of our resolve.
“We also delivered on the long-awaited promise of a Technological University in Waterford. This institution is not just a place of learning; it is a cornerstone of our future.
“It will provide our young people with the education they need to thrive in an ever-changing world, and it will be a hub of innovation and opportunity, attracting talent and investment to our region.
“And then, there is the North Quays development, a transformative project, which is underpinned by a €170 million investment by the State and will redefine the landscape of Waterford City. This project represents our commitment to economic development, job creation, and making Waterford not just a great place to live, but a thriving hub of commerce and culture.
Minister Butler concluded by looking toward the next General Election: “I don’t believe for a second that my work is finished. I want to deliver more progress on Waterford Airport, UHW, our university, housing, education, and more funding for capital project delivery in Waterford.
“Over the years, I have proven myself as your representative, delivering on the key projects that matter in Waterford. I believe now is the time for Waterford to have a voice at the highest levels of government. It’s time for Waterford to have a seat at the Cabinet table.”
Publication of Mental Health Bill
2024
- New Mental Health Bill replaces the Mental Health Acts 2001–2022.
- The Mental Health Bill contains 202 sections, including regulation of all community Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).
- The Mental Health Bill provides a modern legal framework that will protect the rights of people with mental health difficulties in the decades ahead.
Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, this week announced the publication of the Mental Health Bill 2024, which was approved by Government on 24 July.
The development of the new Mental Health Bill, which will replace the existing Mental Health Acts 2001 – 2022, is a longstanding priority of the Department of Health and features in the current Programme for Government.
The Waterford Minister stated: “The publication of the Bill is an important milestone, and I am happy to deliver on my commitment to ready the Bill for the next steps in the legislative process. The Bill will be ready for introduction to the Oireachtas as soon as possible on the return of the Dáil in September.
“The Bill will replace the 2001 Act, introducing a more modern, person-centred approach to mental health legislation and will put in place a more robust framework in which our mental health services will be delivered and regulated. Importantly, the Bill introduces the regulation of community mental health services, including CAMHS, for the first time.”
Minister Butler added: “The Bill contains numerous important measures, which will have a tangible beneficial impact on individuals accessing mental health services, empowering them to play a more active role in making decisions about their care and treatment.
“The Bill is lengthy and complex, containing 202 sections, and I look forward to guiding it through the legislative process and to bringing it to Committee Stage in the Autumn.”
The Bill was subject to extensive consultation during the current drafting process and prior to the publication of the General Scheme in July 2021, including ongoing consultation with the Mental Health Commission, the Health Service Executive (HSE) and other Government Departments and stakeholders.
Capital Health Projects confirmed for Waterford
Minister for Mental Health & Older People, Mary Butler TD, has today confirmed the capital projects for Waterford under this year’s national Capital Health Plan.
The Minister of State at the Department of Health stated: “I am delighted to confirm the following health projects for Waterford which will receive funding under the Capital Health Plan.
“The money allocated via this year’s plan will be the catalyst for significant progress on a number of key developments for University Hospital Waterford (UHW) and the wider county.
“In what is a key project for UHW, funding will be provided for the appraisal of a proposed 2 floor vertical extension over existing Outpatient Department (OPD) to provide an additional 36 consulting rooms, 4 treatment rooms, 4 measurement rooms, and 2 virtual consultation rooms.
“At 2,002 Sq metres in total, with the inclusion of 2 new levels, a plant room and alterations to existing levels, this really ambitious development for UHW is intended to progress to detailed design. Those familiar with the hospital will be cognisant of the significance of this confirmation. The vertical extension to the Out Patient Department will provide much needed additional capacity.
“I’m really pleased having engaged with Minister Donnelly and the Estates Department in Health, to progress this major expansion at University Hospital Waterford.
Minister Butler continued: “As Minister for Older People, I am all too aware of the importance of Community Care, community beds, including rehab, respite, dementia and palliative beds. I am delighted to announce as part of the upgrade of Community Nursing Hospitals, that Dungarvan Community Hospital is included.
As Minister of State in the Dept of Health, I was in the right place at the right time to be able to secure this project a place on the Capital Plan and it will now progress to the ‘Design Feasibility’ stage as a result. Across the country, 48 Community Nursing Unit’s have been rebuilt to HIQA standards, including Waterford Residential Care Centre (formally St. Patrick’s). This is the first step in ensuring Dungarvan Community Hospital will be upgraded.
“In some really great news for the whole county, Waterford is due for a brand new greenfield site Ambulance Base. Appraisal will be underway for a standalone base with a gross internal floor area (GIFA) of approximately 1550 Sq metres, making this a very noteworthy project for Waterford.
Among the most notable of other projects on the Plan are the Surgical Hub facility for UHW which will include two-day surgery theatres and two minor procedure rooms along with recovery or post anaesthetic facilities and also significant funding for the completion of the new Audiology Services and new Orthodontic services at St. Otterans.
“There is good news in several other areas also as multiple projects are set to be pushed on as a result of funding allocations through this year’s Plan. This is a very positive Capital Plan for Waterford which I was delighted to work on with my colleague at the Department of Health, Minister Stephen Donnelly,” Minister Butler concluded.
Minister Butler visits Italy and Cyprus on St. Patrick’s Week
Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, represented Ireland on official visits to Italy and Cyprus as part of the official St. Patrick’s Day engagements by Government Ministers.
Minister Butler stated: “It was a pleasure to start my visit in Italy where I learned that 407,000 Italians visited Ireland in 2023. Naturally the theme of my visit to Milan was tourism and the huge importance of maintaining and strengthening ties between our two nations.
“Failte Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and Bord Bia all have bases in Milan and I met a number of their representatives on the iconic Via Dante. 16 billboards had been erected there to promote Irish tourism to the thousands of pedestrians enjoying the city’s main thoroughfare.
“That evening it was great to witness ‘Ireland Week’ in full flow as Milan embraced Ireland through musical, culinary and cultural events which were taking place all around the city. I spoke at the ‘Experience Ireland’ showcase where many leading Irish companies showcased their wares to encourage travel to our shores.“I wasn’t shocked to learn that beef is one of our biggest exports to Italy, but I was surprised to learn that our scampi is imported to similar levels.
Minister Butler continued: “From Milan to Rome where I commenced proceedings through a Bilateral meeting with Minister of Family, Natality and Equal Opportunities, Eugenia Maria Roccella. “I was then honoured to meet and present Pope Francis with a Waterford Crystal bowl of shamrock in recognition of St Patrick’s Day on behalf of the people of Ireland. I understand this is the first time an Irish Minister has presented a bowl of shamrock to a Pope.
“It was a personal thrill to see many areas of the revered Vatican City, such as the wonderful Vatican Gardens. I also saw Campo Santo, the wartime residence in Vatican City of Irish Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty and visited the Irish Embassy to Holy See for a briefing with Ambassador Frances Collins. “I was hosted for lunch that day at the Pontifical Irish College. I was delighted to Fr. Michael Mullens of the Ballybricken Parish who is currently on retreat at the College and enjoy his warm hospitality. Amazingly the college was founded by Waterford Franciscan Luke Wadding and will celebrate its 400th year in 2028.
“I finished my official visits in Cyprus where I met Superintendent Denis Whelan, previously stationed in Waterford, who leads a team of 12 Gardaí as part of an international police force, charged with the responsibility of patrolling the United Nations Buffer Zone. “I met another Waterford man, a member of the Irish group, Garda Jim Ahern from West Waterford and had a tour of the Buffer Zone where I was informed about how the Irish Gardaí are well known for their skills of peaceful de-escalation through a communicative and personal approach. I also enjoyed a visit to Melathronagapis Agapis, a home for the elderly and official engagement with Cypriot Minister of Health, Mr. Michael Damianos.
Minister Butler concluded: “We may be a small country of 5 million but the estimated 70 million people around the world with Irish forebears makes Irish diaspora one of the largest of any nation and shows our global reach. Irish Ministers visited around 70 countries for St. Patrick’s week to further strengthen our Diplomatic, cultural, economic and historical ties. We can never take such access for granted, a point which really hit home to me when I was face to face with the Holy Father and heard him say, “Ah, the land of the green - Ireland!”.
Doubling of funding awarded for mental health research projects to €7million
Minister for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler TD has announced a doubling in funding for mental health research, compared with the average level of comparable funding over the last five years.
Funding of €7 million will support the advancement of mental health research projects through the Health Research Board (HRB), under the national mental health policy Sharing the Vision and aligned with the Department of Health Statement of Research Priorities. This funding was allocated during 2023, with further funding rounds specific to mental health research, and aligned to Sharing the Vision, to take place over the lifetime of the policy (2020-2030).
The funded research projects will generate important and actionable evidence to support mental health improvements in areas such as:
• Improving recovery for people affected by psychotic disorders.
• The effective use of social media to access mental health information.
• How to reduce rates and improve the experience of involuntary care for young people in the Irish mental health service.
• Why people with diabetes in Ireland appear to be more likely to experience depression compared with other EU countries.
Globally, it has long been recognised that mental health research is underfunded compared to other (physical) disease areas in the context of disease burden, and the majority of mental health research investment tends to be in basic research rather than spanning the full spectrum of mental health.
This €7 million of funding reflects the Government’s continued and enhanced investment in mental health research in Ireland. Funded projects by the HRB include investigator-led research projects and fellowships, as well as two larger awards through a new HRB Applied Programme Grants scheme where mental health has been identified as a thematic priority. Importantly, the increased investment spans a range of applied research topics in clinical, population health and health services research, reflective of the scope of Sharing the Vision and adding to the evidence basis for future service improvements.
The Waterford Minister stated: “We know that one in four people in the world will be affected by a severe mental health difficulty at some point in their life and this research will support our understanding of what interventions or strategies will work, where and for whom.
“It is vital that the mental health service improvements we are making are validated with a range of evidence-based research projects across all areas of mental health care. This €7 million in Government funding will be used to improve the level of data and knowledge available to enable us to improve outcomes for those affected by mental health difficulties in this country. The research will include evidence of best practice in the provision of mental health services and will facilitate targeted improvements in services over the lifetime of Sharing the Vision.
“I would like to congratulate the recipients of the funding awards and wish them and their colleagues the very best with their important and necessary work.”
Minister Butler announces additional staff for weekend Cath Lab service at UHW
Minister for Mental Health & Older People, Mary Butler TD, has announced the approval of additional staff to facilitate an expansion of cardiac services at University Hospital Waterford (UHW) to cover weekends.
The Waterford Minister stated: “I can confirm that 19.5 Whole Time Equivalent (WTE) staff positions have been approved to facilitate the extension of Cath Lab hours to a 7 day, 8am to 8pm service.
“The current service in place across both Cath Labs at UHW is 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday. The next big step is the provision of a weekend service, which is now a reality following confirmation of these additional staff posts this morning.”
“This allocation of additional staff includes two Senior Cardiac Physiologists, a Consultant Cardiologist, two Clinical Nurse Managers, two Senior Radiographers, eight General Staff Nurses as well as Clerical Officers (2), Porters (1.5) and a Health Care Assistant (1).
Minister Butler continued: “Based on previous engagements I have had with management at UHW, I am assured that this extra staff, combined with the impending extension of hours, will likely cover 90% of all potential cases, once in place. This is obviously very reassuring to the public and is also an indication of how far we have come since the days of the 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday service.
This has been a hugely personal issue to me since entering national politics as a TD in 2016. Since the Taoiseach appointed me as a Minister of State at the Department of Health in July 2020, this has been my number one priority.
“I have worked closely since then alongside the Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly and other Government colleagues, to accelerate the expansion of our Cath Lab hours to this point.
Minister Butler concluded: “It is vital that we now secure the most highly qualified people to fill these additional staff positions. Having spoken with General Manager, Ben O’Sullivan, I’m advised that UHW will be tenacious when it comes to recruitment in this respect.
“As always I want to commend the very hardworking staff and management for their ongoing stellar efforts in making UHW one of the leading hospitals in the country,” concluded Butler.
€10 million of additional
supports for nursing homes
Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler T.D. has opened the Nursing Home Resident Safety Improvement (RSI) Scheme for applications. The scheme aims to support private and voluntary nursing homes to improve infection prevention and fire safety.
Up to €25,000 will be available to each qualifying nursing home for structural works to improve compliance with Regulation 27 (Protection against infection) and/or Regulation 28 (Fire precautions) of S.I. No. 415/2013,
Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations 2013 (as amended).
The scheme commenced on 1 January 2024 and the closing date for applications is 15 November 2024.
Qualifying nursing homes in Waterford and throughout the country can claim costs for previously undertaken works if they were carried out between 1 January 2020 and 1 January 2024 and meet the scheme criteria.
Minister Butler stated: “I was really pleased to secure funding in Budget 2024 for this new €10 million Resident Safety Improvement Scheme and I urge all eligible nursing homes to apply. The scheme is designed to support private and voluntary nursing homes to meet compliance with regulations and improve infection prevention and fire safety.
“I am aware that carrying out works to meet compliance can prove costly for some nursing homes, especially for smaller, voluntary and older nursing homes. The aim of this new scheme is to alleviate some of the financial pressures this may cause with up to €25,000 available to each qualifying nursing home for eligible works.
“At all times, my focus is on the safety and wellbeing of residents. It is important that older people and their families are reassured that our long-term residential care facilities meet the highest possible standards.”Scheme details, including application forms are available on the HSE and NTPF websites.
Additional investment of €10 million
to support core mental health services
Tuesday 16th January 2024, the Sharing the Vision - National Mental Health Conference took place at Dublin Castle. The Conference was convened and opened by Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler with contributions from An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly.
Opening the Conference, the Waterford Minister said: “Over the lifetime of this Government, investment in mental health services has grown to €1.3 billion. This announcement of a further €10 million to support the clinical programmes and youth mental health, further highlights the Government’s recognition of mental health as a central component to overall health.
“I look forward to working with colleagues in my Department and the HSE to identify service improvements and innovations that can be underpinned and delivered through this funding.”
The Conference included a specific focus on lived experience and recovery, and the positive benefits of embedding lived experience in policy implementation and service development.
Minister Butler stated: “Ensuring that the voice of patients, and lived experience is embedded in mental health services and policy implementation is so important.
“Mental health services should not be developed in a vacuum, and only by ensuring that the voice of those who use services, and those who have experienced mental health difficulties and have experienced recovery, should always be taken into account.
“Only by doing so can we ensure that our policies and services are modern, and person-centred. In 2023, 19,000 people accessed Mental Health Recovery Colleges across Ireland. These colleges have been developed with the voice of those at the very heart of its model, those that are receiving support from these services.
“The success of these colleges further exemplifies how listening to the lived experience, can positively impact on health services.
Minister Butler concluded by emphasising the need for continued investment in mental health services, across the spectrum of prevention and early intervention, through to acute specialist services:
“This week’s event has further highlighted the core issue that mental health challenges can impact on anyone, at any stage of life.
“The central theme that there is ‘no health, without mental health’ exemplifies the need to ensure that mental health services, and modern, person-centred, and accessible to everyone.”
€3.3 million for Walsh Park
Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, has announced that €3,302,602 million will be provided to Waterford GAA for the continued redevelopment of Walsh Park.
The Waterford Minister stated: “This is really positive news for Waterford GAA who have been allocated a further €3,302,602 under the by the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) via the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport & Media.
“This significant funding is being provided to the Waterford County Board in addition to the original €3.753 million allocated in 2020 for the redevelopment of Walsh Park.
“I was delighted that Minister of State at the Department of Sport, Thomas Byrne TD, accepted my invitation to visit Walsh Park this past June to witness first-hand the great work being carried out as part of Phase 1 of the redevelopment of the home of Waterford GAA.
Butler continued: “The Minister also took the opportunity to view the plans for Phase 2 of the project at the Keane’s Road entrance, which incorporates new dressing rooms and further improvements to key facilities for players, match officials and spectators.
“I want to thank Minister Byrne for his interest and immediate understanding of the significance of this project to the people of Waterford. Immense credit is also due of course to the County Board and Chairman Sean M O’Regan for their ongoing work in driving the development of Walsh Park and Waterford GAA.
The Minister for Mental Health & Older People concluded: “This is good news for Waterford and I’m sure it will generate great buzz in GAA communities around the county. I attended the Camogie All-Ireland Final in August and the positivity around our national sport and in particular the growth of women’s sport was palpable.
“At half time I was delighted to meet with Chairman O’Regan and Minister Byrne to discuss the progress of the Walsh Park project. There was clear enthusiasm and eagerness expressed to proceed to continue to phase two of the redevelopment and build on the momentum created in phase one.
“It was also wonderful to host the senior hurling and camogie finals back in Walsh Park this summer. The ground looked superb and great credit is due to all involved in getting us to this point. The home of Waterford GAA is going from strength to strength, and we’ve taken another big step today.”
Additional staff for seven day Cath Lab service at UHW
Minister for Mental Health & Older People, Mary Butler TD, has secured a firm commitment from Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly TD, that additional staff will now be provided to facilitate a seven-day cath lab service at University Hospital Waterford (UHW).
“Minister Donnelly gave me a very firm commitment that the staff required to expand the existing hours at the cath lab to a seven-day service will now be provided for, paving the way for a Monday to Sunday, 8am to 8pm service.
“Currently there is a full ten day per week service provided by our two cath labs, five per week in the existing lab and five per week in the new one. Obviously, the next big step is the provision of a weekend service which is why approval of the additional staff required to fill the extra hours is vital.
“A business case for 14 additional staff, at a cost of just under €1 million, has been submitted to the South Southwest Hospital Group (SSWHG) by UHW and will hopefully be approved without delay. This is really positive news, another significant step forward and I am hopeful that recruitment for these positions can commence in January, pending sign off on the business plan submitted by UHW.
Minister Butler continued: “The additional capacity provided by the second lab is already making a huge difference, which has led to the lowest waiting list for outpatient diagnostic angiograms in the country, now down to just three months. This is especially impressive when you consider UHW is also supporting South Tipp and Kilkenny.
“In some other positive news for Waterford on the health front, following the influx of additional numbers to UHW’s emergency department (ED) in the wake of the fire at Wexford General, a South East Recovery Plan has been submitted to HSE Acute Operations following the reopening of the hospital.
“The associated costs for UHW are estimated to be €8.5 million and that is now being considered under the supplementary funding for the Department of Health, which was recently agreed at €1.03 billion. I can also advise that the new MRI is opening in less than two weeks’ time, on the 12th of December.
“In respect of the extension at the blood testing lab, we are seeing progress there also as the site office will be in place next week, with work due to commence in the new year resulting in further improvements in diagnostics.
“As always I want to commend the very hardworking staff and management for their ongoing stellar efforts in making UHW one of the leading hospitals in the country,” concluded Butler.
Historic day at UHW as 2nd Cath Lab opens
Waterford Minister for Mental Health & Older People, Mary Butler TD, has announced that the second cath lab at University Hospital Waterford (UHW) will officially open its doors this morning.
Minister Butler commented: “I am delighted to confirm that the second cath lab at UHW officially becomes operational from this morning. The new facility will receive its first cases in the lab today and live systems training is already well underway.
“The three day off site diagnostic services that were in UPMC Whitfield for the last 12 months, while necessary works took place, have now been repatriated to UHW and will increase to five days a week from today.
“The various team and staff members are absolutely delighted to be now working in the new unit according to the General Manager of the hospital, Ben O’Sullivan, who I spoke with today and there is a real sense of progress on site.
“We now have a five day service in both cath labs, Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, representing another huge step forward for cardiac care services in Waterford and the South East.
“Great credit is due to all of those who campaigned for this in recent years. There has been a major community effort on the ground for many years. I believe that the energy we have seen from the public on this issue has been recognised and matched by those in Government, given the progress made in recent years since the last election.
Minister Butler continued: “I am also happy to announce that the eye cataract unit in the shelled out area of the UHW campus will go live this Wednesday following water sampling.
“This will mean an additional six cataract sessions per week and enhanced capacity for up to 50 to 60 more people to have cataract procedures as part of this targeted waiting list initiative.
“This unit will be fully up and running at full pelt in four to six weeks according to Mr. O’Sullivan as staff training etc is undertaken and it is expected to make a significant difference in terms of current waiting lists.
Minister Butler concluded: “I want to thank Minister Donnelly for working so closely with me at the Department of Health over the past three years on the second cath lab at UWH, his appreciation of the need for progress on cardiac care services in Waterford and his immediate commitment to delivery.
“Our main focus now is on the next big step which will be to deliver a seven day service of 8am-8pm and we are hoping to see that up and running by early in the new year,” concluded Butler.
UN Conference on Ageing in Rome
Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, represented Ireland on an official visit to Rome, Italy to address a United Nations Conference on Ageing.
The Waterford Minister stated: “It was a pleasure to address the 5th United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Ministerial Conference on Ageing in Rome. In attending the event, I was afforded an important opportunity to engage with Ministerial colleagues from across Europe on ageing population, climate change and development of sustainable communities.
“The title of the conference was, 'A sustainable world for all ages: joining forces for solidarity and equal opportunities throughout life'. I addressed this theme through the lens of mainstreaming ageing to advance a society for all ages, explaining to attendees that Ireland is demonstrating this through recent innovations such the Age Friendly Houses, Age-Friendly Programme, and Sláintecare.
Minister Butler continued: “I was delighted to outline that Ireland’s current Programme for Government has a vision of creating an Age Friendly Ireland through listening to older people.
“Over the last decade over 20,000 older Irish people have participated in consultations across Ireland through town hall meetings, round table discussions, focus groups, workshops and annual general meetings.
“I also declared our commitment to mainstreaming ageing and our ultimate objective to make Ireland a great place to grow old where the voices of older people are listened to and recognised.
“In the days that followed, I was fortunate enough to be accommodated with a visit to the Vatican where I received a warm welcome from the Irish Ambassador to the Holy Sea and Waterford man, Mr. Derek Hannon. I really began to feel at home when I saw a map of Ireland dating back to the 1500s which showcased Waterford and Dungarvan.
Minister Butler concluded: “To round off my official visit to Rome, I addressed the Irish and Italian communities at the Irish Embassy in Rome. I received a great welcome from the Irish Ambassador to Italy, Patricia O’Brien before marking the 100th anniversary of James Joyce’s masterpiece Ulysses.”