By Róise Collins
Last week’s meeting of the Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District was opened with a solemn minute’s silence as councillors paid their respect to two local men who passed away last week.
Mayor of the Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District, Cllr Kevin Bradley shared his condolences with both men’s families.
He said it was important to highlight their passing as October 10, the day on which the meeting took place, is internationally recognised as World Mental Health Day.
This sparked an important conversation amongst the councillors in attendance surrounding the importance of prioritising the issue of mental health as a council.
Cllr Donal Mandy Kelly spoke specifically about men’s mental health which he said was a “major problem” locally and urged his colleagues that as a council they must do their best to focus on raising awareness of mental health issues.
Cllr Donal Coyle also spoke about the importance of raising awareness of mental health issues particularly in young men.
He added that it is “crucial” to offer a listening ear to those who need it, as you never know how important those few moments could be.
Cllr Gerry McMonagle then urged anyone who is struggling to make use of the mental health services available locally, such as Jigsaw, Wellness Cafes, Letterkenny CDP and the Donegal Youth Services.
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