Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The main message to get out of this debate is that no one should ever need to feel alone. It is making the connection between the person who is at a critical time in his or her life and making it easier for him or her, whether that is through the local GP, calling the Samaritans, or calling a friend, but also accessing the services that are there that the Government is funding. It is about making a person feel in this country that there is no need to feel lost or alone. You can put up your hand, dial your phone or call out for help and that help is there.

Every one of us, and especially politicians because we are quite simply dealing with so many people every day of the week, should be looking out for people’s mental health as well as for all of the other aspects of their lives that we try to positively impact upon. We should be on our guard because if by doing our work properly we can save any people going through the torture and anguish that is suicide, it would be a job very well done. It is an onus and responsibility that each of us have, which we should take very seriously and conscientiously.

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