The Green Party has called for more support for people feeling lonely or isolated after the body of Joyce O’Mahony was discovered in Cork. It is reported that O’Mahony died potentially 18 months before her body was found. The Green Party has proposed a motion calling for an appointment of a Minister with responsibility for combating loneliness.
Senator Pauline O’Reilly, who proposed the motion, said;
“We are experiencing a crisis of people feeling isolated from society, Ireland has the highest reported level in the EU for loneliness with over 20% of Irish people reported feeling lonely most or all of the time. We need decisive Government action combining all elements of society to build community spirit and tackle loneliness. A dedicated Minister is needed to give this issue the full focus it deserves.”
Eoin Madden, candidate in Galway East said:
“I feel no other party else is talking about 3rd spaces. I’m asking voters to make libraries, community halls, sheds and playgrounds a priority in the next election. This is an area where local councilors have a role to play in taking concrete action to build communities with strong bonds and resilient mental health.”