Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)

The position is not as bad as it is being spun at present. We will get out of this recession. In the past, we as a society have got out of difficulties far greater than the one we are in. If we start picking ourselves up, dusting ourselves off, and looking to the positive and what we can do well in this country, then we can drive the economy forward and deal with some of the negative impacts of the recession. One step that can be taken quickly, and which will not cost one cent, is to deal with that issue of perception of mental health and to start openly talking about it. If we could even take that one small step forward as a society, it would have a significant impact on the rates of suicide and those seeking the professional help. People do not have to suffer in silence.

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