The PN said Tuesday that it is worrying that the government has shelved its plans to build an acute mental hospital, when it was promised in the Labour Party’s electoral manifesto.

In a statement, the PN said that while neglecting the mental health sector in the last 11 years, the Labour Government somehow still found a way to give “€400 million to Vitals and Steward”.

The PN said that just until a while ago, the government was still saying that works had begun on the new mental health acute hospital, which was to include 120 beds, modern facilities and a specialized outpatient department.

“It also said it had identified the location, paid for various studies, and had a plan, but today we know that all this was a waste of time, money, and resources.”

Contrary to the PL’s electoral manifesto, the PN said that the government confirmed that it will only be doing a unit within Mater Dei Hospital, “to the disappointment and frustration of several associations and professionals after what was promised for several years”.

In this regard, the PN said it reaffirms its proposals to ensure that mental health care receives the attention and importance it deserves.

These proposals are:

1. To build a new mental health hospital near Mater Dei.

2. To continue the renovation work at Mount Carmel Hospital.

3. To ensure that mental health care is provided at a high standard in a manner other conditions are addressed.

4. To invest in the Medicine Formulary with new medicines already available on the market and known to offer a better care

5. To create an education plan to reduce the stigma associated with mental health conditions.

6. To establish an awareness program at different levels within our educational system on how to recognize and seek help.

7. To integrate the care and treatments provided in our mental health system into clinics and health around our country to reduce stigma.

8. To offer an assessment program for students and employees so they can know through examinations if they are suffering from any mental health-related conditions.

9. To invest in human resources in clinics and hospitals alike.

10. To assist volunteer organizations to invest more in this sector.

11. To strengthen methods for individuals in crisis to immediately access help via phone, online, or in person.

12. To introduce the concept of "safe spaces" in large buildings or public spaces, to be used  when one feels uncomfortable or needs a short break without distraction.