The beleaguered suicide prevention and mental health support charity SOSAD, which is danger of closure due to a lack of funding, were invited to Leinster House by Deputy Joanna Byrne yesterday to put their case to Oireachtas members of all parties.

Oireachtas members of all parties and none, from across the state heard of the vital work done by suicide prevention service, SOSAD and their desperate plea for funding to stay open.

As well as detailing the vital work that they do in our communities, across Cavan, Louth, Meath, Monaghan and Laois, they also had heartbreaking personal testimonies from people who have used their services and set out the challenges that they are currently facing.

Speaking after the event, Deputy Byrne said “For 17 years since its inception in 2007, SOSAD Ireland has provided a crisis lifeline for people struggling with suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, bereavement, stress and anxiety through the provision of free confidential counselling in-person and remotely, a 24-7 freephone helpline and an online messaging service.

“This work is supported by a team of 206 volunteer counsellors across Ireland but, without core funding and promised Government intervention, this service is at risk of imminent closure.

“Over the weekend they gave the sad news that they are to close their messaging service due to a lack of funding. Importantly their other services are remaining open.

“Last November 5^th, SOSAD met with the then Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler who committed to providing emergency funding of €300k which would allow them to keep providing their services while engaging with the HSE to secure Section 39 Funding which, when secured, would guarantee their services into the future. However, the promised emergency funding never materialised.

“That let-down was spoken about at length by all in attendance at the briefing. Opposition and government TDs and Senators who were in attendance all committed to supporting SOSADs call for the emergency funding. 

“Ultimately, it will be the Minister for Health's call, but this matter will be raised again and again until the emergency funding is provided, as they will not be able to stay open to secure the Section 39 funding if they do not receive the emergency funding in the interim.

Finishing Deputy Byrne said “The briefing hit home to many, just how important SOSAD is.

“They play a significant role in preventing many tragic losses of life. The HSE and other charities that do receive Section 39 funding regularly refer people to SOSAD to avail of their services. They cannot close, and I would urge the government to provide the emergency funding as soon as possible.”