Letter on Mental Health and Election Commitments in the Irish Times [04/11/24]
Dear Sir/Madam,
As the general election approaches, the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy views this as a crucial opportunity for each political party to prioritise mental health in its election manifesto, with a commitment to investing in counselling and psychotherapy services that would alleviate pressure on waiting lists and improve the wellbeing of people.
Firstly, we urge the members of the next Dáil Éireann and government to introduce a VAT exemption for counselling and psychotherapy services. This would establish parity of esteem with other health professionals and make vital therapeutic services accessible to those who need them most.
Secondly, we are calling for recognition of counselling and psychotherapy services as eligible for tax relief. In our recent survey, conducted by Behaviour & Attitudes (B&A), 88% of Irish adults supported this policy change, highlighting the public’s desire for greater access to mental health care.
Finally, we welcome the extension of the Pilot Programme of Counselling to 61 urban DEIS primary schools in Dublin and urge its expansion to cover all primary and secondary students nationwide. This would facilitate young people to get access to mental health support when they need it.
During the general election campaign, it is essential that counselling and psychotherapy services be given the recognition they deserve in our public discourse, with each political party making a commitment to prioritise implementing the measures outlined during the next Dáil term.
Yours,
Lisa Molloy
Chief Executive Officer
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