12 Jul 2021, 15:09
The Sub-Committee on Mental Health will discuss the impact of Covid-19 on the mental health of Travellers with representatives of Pavee Point Traveller and Roma Centre at a meeting in Leinster House, tomorrow, Tuesday 13 July.
Pavee Point Traveller and Roma Centre’s Co-Director Ronnie Fay; Patrick Reilly, Mental Health Worker; Geraldine McDonnell, Traveller Mental Health Community Development Worker and Lynsey Kavanagh, Traveller Health Policy and Research Coordinator will appear virtually for the discussion in Committee Room 4 at 12.30pm.
Cathaoirleach of the Committee Senator Frances Black said: “The pandemic and the public health restrictions imposed in response to Covid-19 have led to reported increases in stress, worry, anxiety and depression across all section of the population.
“Prior to the pandemic a high rate of mental health illness and suicide within Traveller community was reported. It is of huge concern that the pandemic may be adding to this crisis. The Sub-Committee welcomes tomorrow’s engagement to discuss how mental health within the Traveller Community has been impacted by Covid-19, the impact public health measures like cocooning, isolation and social distancing has had on mental health within this Community and the mental health services and supports needed to address demand.”
Watch the meeting live.