McGuinness to publish report on mental health services and attitudes in West Waterford

Sinn Féin local election candidate Conor D. McGuinness is set to publish a research document into mental attitudes and services in West Waterford  next week.

McGuinness said:

“Mental health services have been under-resources and downgraded across the state by successive Governments over recent decades. The community and voluntary sector have stepped up in many cases to fill the gaps left in state services.

“A quiet crisis is gripping communities the length and breadth of Ireland when it comes to mental health and wellbeing.

“I have undertaken this research in the report in order to get a clear understanding of the mental health resources available to people in West Waterford and to identify the gaps in service.”

“My report also takes account of attitudes in West Waterford to mental health and to mental health services. Almost 200 local people shared their opinions with me as part of this research.

“The report will include a series of recommendations for action at local level. All are welcome to attend the launch in Dungarvan on Monday 15^th April and I would encourage people with views on this issue to come along and have their voice heard.“

“A number of guest speakers will attend on the night to share their experience and perspective including tray Cullen, who founded the TalkToTom suicide prevention and counseling service in Co. Wexford and Sinn Féin mental health spokesperson Pat Buckley TD .”

The report will be launched at a public event at 7pm on Monday 15^th April in the new Kirby Central Studio premises at 21 Mary Street, Dungarvan.