Longford/Westmeath TD calls for ban on suicide forums
TD Sorca Clarke is calling on the government to take urgent action
Calls have been made for the banning of online forums which promote or facilitate suicide.
Sinn Féin’s spokesperson for mental health, Sorca Clarke, called on the government to take urgent action against such platforms, which, despite being restricted in neighbouring countries, are still accessible in Ireland.
Deputy Clarke described it as “unacceptable that websites of this nature can continue to operate freely while other countries have taken action to restrict access.”
She said, “These platforms prey on vulnerable people at their lowest point and have no place in our society.”
“The Government must now examine what legislative and regulatory measures are required to ensure these forums are no longer accessible in Ireland.”
Deputy Clarke described the issue as a deeply troubling one and accused the state of “failing to protect the vulnerable.”
She continued, “The Government must act urgently to strengthen online protections and ensure that harmful platforms which encourage or facilitate suicide are blocked. At the same time, any response must be accompanied by sustained investment in mental health services, crisis intervention and suicide prevention so that those in distress can access timely support when they need it most.”
Deputy Clarke said she would raise this matter with all relevant Ministers and Coimisiún na Meán, stating that the time for complacency had passed and that the Government must now bring forward urgent measures to protect lives.
Helplines:
Pieta House 1800 247 247 or email [email protected]
Samaritans 116 123 or email [email protected]
Teen-Line Ireland 1800 833 634 (for ages 13 to 19)
Childline 1800 66 66 66 (for under 18s)
Text About It: https://www.textaboutit.ie/
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