Senator calls for mental health supports in Newbridge and South Kildare

Fianna Fáil Senator for Kildare South Fiona O’Loughlin has said she will “continue to fight” to secure funding for a Jigsaw mental health service for Newbridge catering for surrounding areas.

Speaking on the matter, Senator O’Loughlin said: “Kildare has the highest rate of youth suicide in Leinster. While there are some very good online supports available for those who are struggling, they cannot replace person-to-person, face-to-face services.”

According to CSO figures, 14 people died by suicide in Kildare in 2023, with 12 male and two female.

In 2022, the figure was 26, with 22 male and four female.

In 2021, 27 people in the county died by suicide. Between 2017 and 2021, 110 people in Kildare lost their lives in this way.”

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Senator O’Loughlin continued: “We have made great progress in recent years in improving supports for those who are struggling, but there is more to do. The importance of face-to-face services cannot be understated.

“Mental health difficulties can be some of the most isolating times in a person’s life. While online supports are important, there are many who need and prefer in-person help. That is a reasonable expectation and one we must continue to work towards.

“It is clear that Newbridge needs additional support, and I will continue to fight for that. I am constantly liaising with the Minister on this important issue, and working with my colleagues Cllrs Noel Heavey and Rob Power to secure a premises.”

Senator O’Loughlin noted that the increase in mental health supports provided through Budget 2026 represents a significant improvement and will greatly benefit those who need additional help, while acknowledging that more progress is still needed.

“Budget 2026 provided record funding for mental health services with an allocation of more than €1.55 billion, an increase of over 51 percent since 2020. An additional 300 whole-time-equivalent staff will also be recruited across mental health services this year.

“There are many positives in this year’s Budget, particularly the focus on crisis support, suicide prevention, early intervention and talking therapies for youth mental health, as well as the expansion of the National Clinical Programmes.

“However, we now need to ensure that areas facing the greatest challenges, including Newbridge, are prioritised. Progress is being made but the work must continue so that every person who needs mental health support can access it."