Deputy Erin McGreehan has called for a Jigsaw service to be established in Louth, while raising concerns with about long waiting lists for primary care and psychology services for young people.
Speaking on World Mental Health Day, the Fianna Fáil TD said she would continue to work to ensure Louth secures the youth mental health service next year.
“County Louth did not get a Jigsaw service this year, but I will be advocating and pushing for it next year. I will work with the Minister of State, the Department, and Jigsaw to make sure County Louth gets a Jigsaw service,” she said.
Deputy McGreehan highlighted the pressures facing families trying to access mental health supports, noting that 1,400 children across Louth and Meath are currently on primary care waiting lists, with 360 waiting for more than a year.
“Prevention is always cheaper and better than crisis care. A lot of work is being done, but there is a lot more to do,” she said.
The Louth TD welcomed the additional €108 million for mental health services in Budget 2027. The funding secured new supports for County Louth, including €330,000 for a new Solace café and €300,000 for a specialist crisis mental health nursing team in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.
Deputy McGreehan said the café would provide out-of-hours support for people experiencing mental health distress.
“As we all know, mental health crisis does not follow a 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule. Solace cafés offer supports outside those normal working hours. It is a safe space for someone who needs understanding and immediate support.
Deputy McGreehan added that the investment would deliver a service local families have been seeking for years.
“Everyone from County Louth will know we have been asking for this for a long time. This is a real relief for many of those who are suffering from mental health illnesses and their families,” she said.
“When people reach out for help, we must make sure support is there for them. That means investing in local services, reducing waiting lists and ensuring people can get the care they need, when they need it,” she said.
For further information, reach out to Erin McGreehan.
ENDS
