Majella O’Donnell under fire over mental health fee comments

The College of Psychiatrists has expressed serious concerns that comments made by singer Daniel O’Donnell’s wife Majella about psychiatrists’ fees could “deter those in extreme distress from seeking support or help”.

In the press release, it stressed that public mental health services “are free at the point of delivery… and in general, people in acute mental distress will be seen as a matter of urgency”.

College president elect, Dr John Hillery, said: “While it is good to keep the highlight on improvements badly needed in some areas of mental health services it is important the general public having read coverage of some of the points attributed to Mrs O’Donnell will not be put off looking for help when it is needed”.