SIPTU call for better services at Mater A&E for distressed and suicidal persons

SIPTU representatives attended the PIPS (Public Initiative for the Prevention of Suicide and Self harm) silent vigil outside the Mater Hospital on Friday 12^th August 2011 calling for better services to be provided to distressed and suicidal people who go to A&E late at night.

SIPTU representative Anne Thompson said,

“We believe too many distressed and suicidal people and their loved ones are paying the ultimate price for failures in the system. As a trade union we strive for a better social wage for all citizens. We are calling upon the Department of Health and Social Services to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to support vulnerable people seeking urgent assistance.”

“In situations like this society does not get a second opportunity to resolve the issue and the systems must be robust enough to support people at their most vulnerable. SIPTU is currently undertaking a Community Sector campaign to ensure organisations like PIPS secure necessary funding to continue their vital work into the future.”