Niall Ó Brolcháin (Green Party)

I support the calls by many Senators for a debate on mental health. It is important that we do not politicise the issue of mental health. We must all fight together on this issue. There has been much talk about institutions, but it is clear that the foundations of mental health are laid at a very young age — when children are born, in fact. It is a community-based issue and one we must stay on top of.

I support the comments of Senator Alex White about directly elected mayors. I would like to see this come before the House as soon as possible. As we have a potential date in June for the direct election of a mayor, it is important to move the process forward.