John Farrelly

A report published by the Mental Health Commission (MHC) shows that there were 2,836 episodes of restrictive practices in 2024, down by 18 per cent on the year before and down by 49 per cent from 2020.

The MHC introduced revised rules and codes of practices in January 2023, which are underpinned by human rights and person-centred care principles.

John Farrelly, chief executive of the Mental Health Commission, said: “From 2008 to 2018, episodes of physical restraint and the number of residents that were being physically restrained increased year-on-year.

“It is, therefore, encouraging to note that our work with service providers over the past number of years has continued to result in substantial reductions in restrictive practices, including seclusion.

“The data for 2024 demonstrates that clinicians and services are increasingly embedding therapeutic, rights-based approaches that prioritise dignity, safety and recovery.”

Gary Kiernan, director of regulation, said: “The continued decline in restrictive practices signals important and sustained progress in how mental health services are delivered in Ireland.

“These reductions demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting the human rights of people receiving care and ensuring that coercive interventions are used only as a last resort in strictly controlled circumstances.”

He added: “The revised Rules reinforce a rights-based approach to care, requiring approved centres to recognise each person’s inherent dignity and freedom and to ensure that restrictive practices are used only when absolutely necessary, proportionate and for the shortest possible duration.

“While continued focus is required, the 2024 data provide strong grounds for cautious optimism that restrictive practices will continue to decline.”