Lismore MD candidate to help launch mental health report

Tallow local and Sinn Féin local election candidate, Donnchadh Mulcahy, along with Councillor Conor McGuinness, is set to publish a research document into mental health issues and services in west Waterford.

A public meeting will be held alongside the launch of the document, which takes place at Lismore Heritage Centre at 7pm on Friday, April 26th.

"Mental health services have been under-resourced and in some cases downgraded, across the state over recent decades," said Mr Mulcahy.

"There is no easy answer. The community and voluntary sectors have stepped up when they can in an effort to fill the gaps left in state services. In fact, without volunteerism, this country would be in chaos.

“A quiet crisis is gripping communities the length and breadth of Ireland. It is a growing crisis that is impacting on all families. We have undertaken this report in an attempt to establish a clearer understanding of the resources available to people in west Waterford and to identify the gaps in services,” he added.

This report will include a series of recommendations for action at local level.

All are welcome to the launch in Lismore, as Mr Mulcahy said that he and Cllr McGuinness would like to hear the public’s opinions, to learn from one another. Guest speakers on the night are set to include Maurice Shanahan, Pat Buckley TD, Lorna O'Donnell, Ann Barron and Robert O’Donnell.

“Too many of our young people have lost their way. In some cases, this has ended up in suicide. We have a number of guest speakers on the night who will share their experiences and perspectives,” he said.

The launch takes place at 7pm on Friday, April 26 in Lismore Heritage Centre.