Ms Catherine Brogan:

Regarding the first part of Deputy Walsh's question on concerns, having this partnership in place has allowed the Samaritans to put their focus where it is needed, namely, on the callers and on the services that we provide. It has allowed us to target the most vulnerable and reach many more people. There is always a concern, but we have begun discussions with TIF on extending the agreement. We hope to have a positive outcome. We do not want volunteers who could be spending their time delivering this service to callers instead spending it shaking buckets and trying to raise the money necessary to deliver it. It is a designated European number and 116 123 is here to stay.