Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I stand here before the Minister of State following a very useful and informative meeting she had in my constituency with representatives from the GAA, the HSE, Pieta House and SOSAD, and, of course, people affected by the loss of a loved one through suicide. I stand here before the Minister of State to reiterate the points I made at that meeting on the critical needs that arise. There has been a disproportionate increase in the number of young people taking their own lives or attempting to do so in my constituency. I firmly believe the resources that are required do not exist in my constituency. At the meeting, I had three specific asks. One was that the likes of Jigsaw should come to the constituency of Cavan–Monaghan. I am aware that the Minister of State is very much to the fore in supporting that idea but we need to see the HSE coming on board and making a commitment to the area because the service would provide early intervention. I am absolutely convinced the service is needed for young people in the area.

Could the Minister of State commit today to the provision of suicide crisis assessment nurses, SCANs, for Cavan–Monaghan. I am aware from speaking to those working at the coalface, including HSE staff, general practitioners, nurses and others who are presented with the problems of people coming in to them, that SCANs would be instrumental in providing early intervention for young people when they find themselves in dark places.

I ask that primary care psychologist supports be put in place for young people across Cavan–Monaghan. I cannot reiterate enough the needs that arise. I have noted the dark places in which I have seen young people and the number of lives that have been lost. People as young as 16 have taken their own lives in my constituency. I do not need to tell the Minister of State the trauma and trail of destruction this leaves behind for family members and communities. People rally together but in these times it has been particularly difficult to support families in the way required. That is why Jigsaw is needed for Cavan–Monaghan. SCANs and primary care psychologist support are needed. The extra hours would be much appreciated.

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