First ladies join forces for console

IRELAND’S first ladies, Sabina Higgins and Fionnula Kenny, took a cosy cup of tea together in Swinford today (Friday) to help launch the Cosy Up To Console national suicide awareness campaign.

National suicide prevention and bereavement charity Console is asking Ireland’s mammies, grannies, sisters and friends to get the nation talking over a cup of tea about issues surrounding suicide.

The Cosy Up To Console campaign was officially launched by Sabina Higgins at the Cultural Centre in Swinford, where she encouraged the women of Ireland to support Console’s efforts.

“Life is our most precious possession and privilege and death our greatest fear and dread. Console’s work shines a light of hope for those who are struggling with darkness and sadness,” said Mrs. Higgins. President Higgins is patron of the national suicide prevention charity.

Meanwhile, the Taoiseach’s wife also added her voice to the call. “I am very happy to support this initiative by Console, who do fantastic work in the area of suicide prevention and support for people in distress,” said Fionnula Kenny.

The campaign is the brainchild of psychotherapist Anne Lynch, manager of the Console centre in Swinford. She explained: “We have got to get people talking about suicide and what can be done to help those who may be in crisis, a chat over a cuppa is a good way to start that conversation.

“The nation needs to know that Console’s trained counsellors are always available 24/7 and they are only a phone call away on 1800 247 247.”

See Tuesday's print edition of The Connaught Telegraph for full details on Cosy Up To Console.