Press Release

Dublin 1, May 26, 2016: 

According to Our Geel’s; All Ireland Traveller Health Study (2010), Travellers are six times more likely to die by suicide then members of the general population. Exchange House Ireland National Travellers Service is hosting the National Traveller Mental Health Conference in Wynn’s Hotel, Dublin 1 on Thursday, 26th of May, 2016 from 9:30am. The conference will display the ongoing and determined effort by local and national Traveller organisations and non Traveller services to prevent suicide and promote positive mental health within the Traveller community.

Shari Mc Daid of Mental Health Reform will open the conference. Michael Mc Donagh of Meath Travellers Workshop will present on the identity, heritage and culture of the Traveller community, focusing on the resilient and protective factors of the community. Eoin Galavan, Senior Clinical and Counselling Psychologist will present on understanding and responding to suicide. There will be group discussions on such issues as LGBT Traveller Health needs, Youth Mental Health, Engaging Traveller Men, and Money and Mental Health. The final event of the day will be a panel discussion on delivering psychotherapies to the Traveller population.

Contact Patricia Mc Keever for more information

Direct Line: 01 524 0173

Mobile: 087 792 5387

E-mail: Patricia.mckeever@exchangehouse.ie