Eoghan Kenny (Cork North-Central, Labour)

Men's health deserves serious attention in this House. Across Ireland, men are struggling with mental health, access to care and a culture that too often tells them to stay silent. I must commend the good work of Pieta House, the Samaritans, Men's Aid and the Irish Men's Shed Association and the fantastic work it does for men struggling with mental health, loneliness and exclusion. Words are easy, but I would like to encourage everyone and advise any man struggling with his mental or physical health to talk to someone. You are not alone.

When we talk about men's health, we must mean all men, including trans men. Their well-being, safety and access to healthcare are part of men's health. That is why recent remarks from certain quarters of this Chamber are deeply concerning. To suggest that the Minister might breach the code of conduct for simply supporting healthcare for trans people is unfounded and unfair.

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