Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is perfect. It is just that I am very interested in this area. I think it is a good thing because, although I know it is anonymous, sometimes being able to see a face and all of that is very important. Many of our areas are so isolated that it can be very difficult, particularly with the lack of public transport, to get to urban areas to be able to sit down with somebody, if that was needed. I know it is very much a telephone service. I want to highlight the Samaritans number, which is 116 123. That is something we will be promoting an awful lot. Go raibh mile maith agaibh. I thank the Samaritans for all the work they have been doing.

The witnesses mentioned the isolation and the loneliness. I hope we are moving towards a safer and more engaged space. I know our day services and social services are opening up, and that is going to be a way to bring older people back in to connect with their friends. We are seeing our clubs and associations starting up and getting going again. However, many people are still struggling and I think the Samaritans service is crucial.