MORE THAN HALF of the 374 children included in a review into mental health services in North Kerry were found to be at risk of harm.

The long-awaited review, seen by The Journal, found that the level of care given to children was “inconsistent with standard practice” in children and adolescent mental health services (Camhs) nationally.

The review, which was ordered after the 2022 Maskey report, also identified a high rate of prescribing anti-psychotic medicines as one of its core concerns.

The review found that among children whose cases it reviewed, the rate of prescribing of psychotropic medication was much higher than the national norm, particularly for children with an intellectual disability.

This group of patients was found to be at a greater risk of potential for harm as baseline physical health assessment and monitoring were “virtually absent”.

The prescription of two or more psychotropic medications at the same time was also noted to be a concerning feature of the care given to children.

Meanwhile, prescribing of antipsychotic medication was 64% higher than the national average.

Speaking ahead of the publication of the review in the Dáil earlier, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said it has revealed “absolutely unacceptable” medical practices.

Families of the young people involved were sent a copy of the review this morning ahead of its expected publication later today.

Raising the issue during Leaders’ Questions, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald described the matter as a “scandal” and asked the Taoiseach what supports will be given to the children and young people affected.

“These negligent prescribing practices had devastating consequences, which included psychological distress, cognitive impairment, considerable weight gain, excess sedation and high blood pressure.

“Taoiseach, I have met and spoken with some of the young people and families in Kerry, and they have told me of the devastation this caused to their lives,” the Sinn Féin leader said.

She added:

“These young people were in crisis. They reached out for help, and they were failed.” 

In response, the Taoiseach said: “I mean, the first principle of medicine is ‘do no harm’. Harm has been done here in terms of the treatment of quite a number of young people in North Kerry.”

He said the first priority of the Government will be to continue to support impacted families, with Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler travelling to Kerry tomorrow and Friday to meet with those affected. 

He added that no concerns relating to prescribing practice in services have been identified outside of Co Kerry.

The Taoiseach admitted the review took longer than anticipated and said there will now be a need for an “extended look back in terms of absolute certainty for all cases”.

He added that there will be a referral to the Medical Council in respect of what has transpired in Kerry.