Representatives of all the main political parties will today be asked to detail their plans for tackling mental illness.
The conference in Dublin's Mansion House is being organised by the Irish Mental Health Coalition representing Amnesty International, Bodywhys (the Eating Disorders Association of Ireland), GROW in Ireland, the Irish Advocacy Network and Schizophrenia Ireland.
The health spokesperson for each party is being invited to present their policies in the area of mental health.
Chair of the Irish Mental Health Coalition John Saunders said: "Whatever party - or combination of parties - forms the next government, the opportunity will exist to resolve most of the glaring inadequacies and inequities in our mental health services.
"The debate will demonstrate who has the commitment and determination to deliver for some of the most vulnerable members of our society."
The Irish Mental Health Coalition was launched in June 2006 and advocates for the the highest standard of mental health care in Ireland. The conference today is open to the public.