Déise teens to submit petition to bring Jigsaw to Waterford when Dáil returns
Comhairle na nÓg members Molly Power, Ali Legg, and Lily McCarthy
A group of young people in Waterford are to submit a petition on youth mental health services when the Dail reconvenes.
Members of Waterford Comhairle na nÓg Molly Power, Ali Legg, and Lily McCarthy told councillors and officials about their 2024 work at this month’s council plenary meeting in Dungarvan.
The petition to bring Jigsaw to Waterford was launched at the West Waterford Festival of Food last year and has since gained 1176 signatures.
The petition was started as part of the Comhairle na nÓg programme for 2024 with a topic of mental health.
Members had identified a lack of accessible and affordable mental health support and hope Jigsaw could change that.
“Comhairle na nÓg will continue to work on mental health in 2025. We don’t know what that will look like yet, but we are hoping to do some good,” said Lily.
Cllr John Pratt, who was appointed the chair of the Waterford Comhairle na nÓg steering committee in November, urged his council colleagues to support the push to bring Jigsaw to Waterford.
“I would ask each and every one of you here to support it in any way you can to get Jigsaw to the county. It is paramount for the mental health services,” said Cllr Pratt.
In addition to the launch of their petition, members told the council that they have taken part in several projects throughout the year.
In 2024, the group had 26 members, seven identified as male, 18 female and one non-binary.
In March, they partnered with the Waterford council for an artivism workshop linking nature with mental well-being.
“Members got their hands dirty and planted trees at the SETU Arena,” said Molly.
In June, they were awarded seed money to develop the project into Cherrymount and Carriganore.
Two members represented Waterford at Dáil na nÓg, and the Waterford members attended the Comhairle na nOg youth conference in November.
Jigsaw attended that conference.
Waterford members took part in Pieta House’s Darkness into Light in May and in September, the Link for Gaza Awareness campaign.
Councillors at the meeting were very positive about the presentation, giving the young speakers a round of applause.
Mayor of Waterford Cllr Jason Murphy said the report was concise but comprehensive.
“A lot of positives in there, especially the tree planting in Cherrymount. It is a fantastic initiative,” said Cllr Murphy.
Cllr Catherine Burke said it was great to see young people involved in politics.
Cllr Liam Brazil congratulated the group on their work and presentation.
“For young people to come in here today and talk about mental health, I think it is fantastic and I will help you along as much as possible.
“Mental health is something that is so close to my heart. Mental health is something we can’t talk enough about, and I am so proud of you for coming in and talking to us. I think it’s fantastic,” said Cllr Brazil.
“I just want to wish you all well, and I think you are doing fantastic work,” said Cllr Burke.
Cllr Kate O’Mahoney told the young speakers: "Please know that if you need anything, I am only a text or a phone call away."
Cllr Niamh O’Donovan said she has worked in youthwork for ten years, and it's great to see the work young people do.
“To have the three of ye here. I think a lot of us can see ourselves growing up similar to ye in the past.
“I just hope that we maybe talk about and ensure that there is a platform and support for our active young people like yourselves who put up your hands, who participate, who have really good values on empathy, non-judgmental that are needed in our communities. And that you continue to get ye from Comhairle na nÓg to this chamber in the future. I wish you the very best,” said Cllr O’Donovan.
