To: The Irish Government, especially the Minister for Health and TDs, with the power to amend the Mental Health Bill 2024 and protect patients’ rights.
End Rights Violations in Irish Mental Health Services
Reform Ireland’s mental health legislation to end involuntary treatment and ensure all care is fully rights-based, in line with international human rights standards.
Why is this important?
I care about this because I’ve seen how people are treated when they’re at their most vulnerable - and it’s not okay.
We like to think mental health services are there to help, but the reality is that people can be detained and treated against their will, in conditions that strip away their dignity. People are left without basic things like food, clean clothes, privacy, or even proper access to toilets. And on top of that, they’re often not listened to or believed.
That stays with people. It’s not just “treatment” - it can be deeply traumatising.
What really gets me is that this could happen to anyone. If you’re struggling and ask for help, you should be met with care and respect - not fear of losing your rights.
I just don’t think we should accept a system where someone’s autonomy and dignity can be taken away so easily. We can do better than that.
That’s why I’m speaking up - because if enough of us do, it becomes a lot harder to ignore.
How it will be delivered
The petition will be delivered digitally through Uplift, to sends each signer’s letter directly to the TDs and Minister for Health. Additionally, we may compile all signatures into a formal letter and share publicly to increase awareness and accountability.
