Health Minister rejects criticism from GSD over mental health service

The Health Minister Gemma Arias-Vasquez has rejected criticism from the GSD over mental health services, saying she will not take lessons from the opposition on the issue.

The Minister acknowledged the system needs further improvement, and said she has asked the new GHA Director General to prioritise mental health as part of a wider review.

She pointed to the opening of Ocean Views and Hillsides, increased staffing, and the relocation of the Community Mental Health Team to Sir Joshua Hassan House as evidence of progress.

She says eleven student mental health nurses are due to qualify next September.