The country's mental health services are in need of a serious overhaul, according to the Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Mental Health. Colm Keaveney TD made the comment, after it was revealed that nine consultant Psychiatrists withdrew confidence in the clinical management of the Carlow-Kilkenny / South Tipperary mental health services.

Since January 2012, there have been 13 suicides and 4 very serious incidents at psychiatric hospitals in the area.

Deputy Keaveney said the minister with responsibility for Mental Health Kathleen Lynch has consistently ignored the warnings given by front-line staff.