Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees
Wednesday, 8 July 2015
Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport and Communications
Caller Helpline: Samaritans Ireland and Telecommunications and Internet Federation
9:30 am
Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source
I thank the delegates for their informative presentations. Ms Brogan noted that we all have a part to play in preventing suicide. We might all start by putting the 116 number into our telephones and making as many people as possible aware of it. I commend the partnership between the voluntary and corporate sectors that we see in this instance. Given that volunteers of all persuasions often do not get the recognition they deserve, I take this opportunity to compliment the delegates on the good work they are doing throughout the length and breadth of Ireland. Their engagement with industry is a truly successful endeavour. I understand Sky Ireland has agreed to get involved, which is commendable. As a GAA member, I am aware of the work that organisation does in every single parish in the country, the vast majority of them in rural areas. The partnership between the GAA and the Samaritans is proving to be a very successful one.
There is agreement to continue to provide the 116 service until the end of 2016. I do not imagine anybody involved would want to abdicate from such a successful endeavour. I commend all of those involved. The emphasis here today is on reminding us we are all part of a team and all have a part to play in ensuring the most vulnerable people in the country are helped in whatever way possible.
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