The need for suicide crisis assessment nurses in Kerry is urgent.
That’s according to Sinn Féin TD Pa Daly, who raised the issue in the Dáil.
He spoke about the deaths of a teenager and a young man, both from Tralee and from the Traveller community, who both died by suicide.
Deputy Pa Daly shared their stories in the Dáil after receiving permission from both their families.
14-year-old Clancylee Casey died by suicide and was laid to rest last Friday, while 23-year-old Stephen McCarthy died by suicide in 2024.
Deputy Daly says suicide crisis assessment nurses would provide timely care and assessment; the service in place in Cork where the deputy says it's working well.
Deputy Pa Daly says it is shameful that the suicide rate among male Travellers is seven times greater than the national average:
Minister of State with responsibility for Mental Health, Mary Butler extended her sympathies to both the Casey and McCarthy families.
She told Deputy Daly they are currently developing a new Connecting for Life strategy with the National Office for Suicide Prevention and she met with the deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Philip Dodd last week.
The Junior Minister says it’s very close to being finalised, and says reducing self-harm and suicide is a priority for the Government.
Deputy Pa Daly read a message written by Stephen's brother Shane McCarthy, he says it’s too late for Stephen, but he feels discussing the issue publicly will help other.
Anyone affected by this story can contact the Samaritans on 116 123.
