Marie Moloney (Labour)

I thought the Chair had forgotten about me. I am sure all Senators are aware of the Jigsaw project and the Jigsaw network. Today young people appear to have much to deal with, such as study, work, friends and family relationships, drugs and alcohol, and it all gets on top of them. If they need immediate help in my area, Jigsaw Kerry is one of the places to which they go. The Jigsaw project aims to ensure young people's voices are heard and that they get the right help where and when they need it. Jigsaw Kerry forms part of a network of Jigsaw projects delivering tailored community-based supports for young people's mental health needs. We are all aware that good support can help offset the isolation and stigma associated with mental health issues.

I ask that the Minister with responsibility for mental health come to the House specifically to debate youth mental health, in light of the fact that, today, Killarney is coming to terms with the untimely death of a young teenager, to whose family I extend sincere sympathy. There is a need for a debate specifically on youth mental health. The Jigsaw project, which is a three year pilot in a number of areas, must continue to be funded. I have written to Dr. Tony Bates of Headstrong asking that funding continue. As a Government we must ensure funding is in place for Headstrong to go on the Jigsaw projects. I ask the Leader to invite the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, or the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald, to come to the House for an open debate on the issue.