Linda Nelson Murray (Fine Gael)

As the Minister of State will know, there is a wonderful organisation called SOSAD, which stands for Save our Sons and Daughters. I raise its case on my own behalf and on behalf of Senator Keogan who has worked with the charity as well. Since 2007, SOSAD Ireland has six full-time offices based in Cavan, Louth, Laois, Meath and Monaghan from which they provide one-to-one and remote counselling, and a 24-7 freefone crisis line. They also work from outreach offices, one of which is based in Navan, County Meath. Since its inception, SOSAD has been dedicated to supporting individuals and families across Ireland in the managing of their mental health. SOSAD was founded by Peter Moloney from Drogheda after the death of his son, Stephen. SOSAD, which offers compassionate and confidential support, recognises that early help can help to save lives and believes that nobody should struggle alone. As the Minister of State will know, the future of SOSAD hangs in the balance. Yesterday, SOSAD announced that it will have to charge its clients for counselling services due to its huge operational costs and large drop in funding. I appreciate that SOSAD has been working with the HSE for section 39 funding and that the Minister of State has liaised with the charity, but I urge her to do all she can for it. I ask her to work with SOSAD to get this through as quickly as possible so that it can continue the amazing work it does for thousands of people.