New consultant to start in January amid ongoing CAMHS service shortages in Donegal

The post will be filled on a temporary basis and a candidate has accepted the role. The candidate is now going through a clearance process with a new to taking up the post in January

A new Mental Health Intellectual Disability (MHID) consultant is due to start work with CAMHS patients in Donegal in January.

The news was confirmed at the most recent Regional Health Forum West meeting.

The post will be filled on a temporary basis and a candidate has accepted the role. The candidate is now going through a clearance process with a new to taking up the post in January.

Sinn Fein Councillor Gerry McMonagle asked for an update on what alternative service is being provided for CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) patients who require the service.

In a written response to the Letterkenny-based councillor, the HSE said: “Currently, no alternative service is being provided. While we have explored alternative options, they have not progressed as intended.

“We remain committed to delivering a workable solution until the above post is in place.”

The HSE added that the executive clinical director (ECD) and consultant psychiatrists in CAMHS will work with the new consultant regarding referrals when they take up the post.