Sinn Féin TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has called on the Fine Gael and Labour government to act swiftly to prevent loss of life due to the mental health system’s inability to deal with the volume of people who need immediate care.

Deputy Crowe said clients presenting with serious issues were being turned away due to a lack of beds and staff to provide care across the capital.

“This has been going on for months. Lives are being put at risk because there are not enough beds and there are not enough nurses and doctors in place to care for vulnerable people.

“We have people who due to their mental health problems are a danger to themselves and others who are being turned away when they seek care. This is not safe practice and it is only a matter of time before tragedy strikes again.

“Doctors and nurses in these hospitals across the city are working very hard to care for their clients but they cannot deal with the volume of people who need their care due to the effects of consecutive government implemented cutbacks.

“This year massive cuts to health care have only worsened matters. The government must realise they need to change tack and to ensure that those who need care get it.”

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