December 11, 2024
Suicide prevention service could close by Christmas – Mark Ward TD

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Mental Health Mark Ward TD has called on Minister Butler to make good on her promises to a vital suicide prevention service.

Deputy Ward was speaking about Save Our Sons and Daughters, SOSAD, who may have to close their vital service by Christmas if funding is not provided. 

Teachta Ward said:

“A vital suicide prevention service may have to close its doors this Christmas due to a lack of funding.

“In October, Deputy Darren O’Rourke and I, along with other colleagues, met members of Save Our Sons and Daughters, SOSAD. Since 2007 this organisation has worked to raise awareness and help prevent suicide in Ireland.

“SOSAD works tirelessly in communities to help those in need, support them and let them know they are not alone on their journey. SOSAD also offer support and services for people who are struggling with suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, bereavement, stress and anxiety.

“SOSAD has seven offices, based in Cavan, Louth, Meath, Monaghan and Laois. Up to October the organisation had seen 1,600 individual clients and delivered 18,000 counselling sessions.

“I was informed that SOSAD would have to close their doors this year, due to funding issues, with only a couple of months left in the year. It does not receive any statutory funding.

“The representatives said that they contacted the Minister of State’s office a couple of times and told to contact the HSE. That is where the barrier seems to be. When they go to the HSE, the HSE simply does not want to know.

“I raised this on the floor of the Dáil and Minister Butler committed to meeting with the group, which she did at the beginning of November.

“To date, none of the commitments that the Minister made at the meeting, were acted upon according to SOSAD. There has been no further contact from Minister Butler.

“SOSAD have been in contact with me again out of desperation.

“I have written to the Minister and have asked that treat this with the urgency that it deserves.

“This is a vital service and cannot be closed due to a lack of urgency.”

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