Mental Health Reform has expressed concern at the findings of the Mental Health Commission’s Annual Report 2025, which exposes persistent levels of low compliance in in-patient mental health centres.
Commenting on the report, Helen Gillespie Brown, CEO of Mental Health Reform, said:
“We welcome the publication of the Mental Health Commission’s annual report, which provides important insights into the quality and safety of Ireland’s inpatient mental health services.
While there have been some positive improvements, the report raises significant concerns regarding high levels of non-compliance in key areas, including premises, risk management, staffing and individual care planning.
Of particular concern is the poor standard of facilities, some of which are outdated, unsuitable or unsafe. People who use mental health services have a right to receive treatment in modern, high-quality facilities that support their recovery.
The sharp increase in enforcement actions indicates potential risks to the safety, care and wellbeing of residents in approved centres. These findings underline the need for stronger clinical governance, oversight and sustained investment in our mental health system.
The decline in the use of restrictive practices, including physical restraint, represents an important cultural shift towards human-rights-based care. While there has been much progress, the increased use of seclusion shows that more work is needed to strengthen safeguards for some of the most vulnerable people using mental health services.
One of the most significant reforms in the new Mental Health Act 2026 is the introduction of independent oversight of pharmacological restraint by the Mental Health Commission. As pharmacological restraint is not currently regulated, there is limited visibility of its use across services. The new framework will strengthen transparency and accountability, providing a clearer picture of restrictive practices and supporting further reductions while protecting people’s rights, dignity and autonomy.
Worryingly, the report also shows that applications by An Garda Síochána to involuntarily detain people increased last year, while only a small number of applications were made by authorised officers. Under the Mental Health Act 2026, Gardaí will no longer have the power to make applications for involuntary admission and this responsibility will instead rest with HSE authorised officers. Targeted resources and training will be crucial to increase the availability of authorised officers when the legislation is commenced.
Overall, the report demonstrates the importance of increased investment in our mental health system. Currently, mental health services receive just 5.7% of the total health budget. Mental Health Reform is calling on the Government to increase investment to 10% of the health budget by 2030. Greater investment in community mental health services would ensure that people receive timely and effective support, reducing the need for acute and inpatient care.
The enactment of the Mental Health Act 2026 marks a major step forward in strengthening the rights of people with mental health difficulties. However, substantial investment will be needed in Budget 2027 to implement the legislation and deliver the reforms it promises.”
Notes
The Mental Health Commission’s Annual Report 2025 is available here.