THE closure of Victorian-era psychiatric institutions has been official Government policy for more than 40 years, yet hundreds of mental health patients still remain in outdated, unsuitable buildings.

A DELAY in opening a new 15-bed unit for psychiatric patients in Killarney was described as “irresponsible” at the weekend.

Former Kerry footballer Liam Hassett, who recently announced his retirement from the inter-county scene, is spearheading a fundraising drive by the Killorglin Branch of the Kerry Mental Health Association.

ONE-FIFTH of almost 1,000 first-year secondary students claim to suffer significant stress levels, according to a survey to be launched today.