Secured Jigsaw funding is massive step for Waterford
Funding has been secured for the implementation of a Jigsaw service in Waterford.
Government Chief Whip and Minister for Mental Health, Mary Butler T.D yesterday announced a Jigsaw youth mental health service for Waterford and the South-East, having secured €1m funding for the service in Budget 2026.
Jigsaw is a national centre that offers mental health supports for young people aged 12-25.
Reacting to the news, Joseph Duffy, CEO of Jigsaw, said:
“This is a really positive and important step. Expanding Jigsaw services means that more young people will be able to access support when they need it, in their own communities, without long waits or complex referral processes. I want to acknowledge the significant work of Minister Butler, the Department of Health and the HSE in supporting this expansion of Jigsaw’s youth mental health supports.
“We know from experience that early, local, and accessible mental health support can change the trajectory of a young person’s life. Every young person, no matter where they live, deserves that opportunity.”
“While this funding is hugely welcome, the reality is that youth mental health remains one of the biggest challenges facing our country. We must see today’s announcement as part of a sustainied and long-term investment in building a system that truly meets young people’s needs.”
Meanwhile, Sinn Féin TD for Waterford David Cullinane also welcomed the funding, and said that clarity is needed on the staffing requirement and the timeframe for delivery, and called on the Minister of State to outline when the centre will be delivered.
Teachta Cullinane said:
“The announcement of €1 million for a Jigsaw Youth Mental Health in Waterford is very welcome. I strongly commend the young people from Waterford Comhairle na nÓg for their successful campaign to get this over the line. I was delighted to meet with them a number of months ago with my colleague Teachta Conor McGuinness, and to raise their petition with the Minister and with the Taoiseach.
“That is why I welcome the announcement from Minister of State Mary Butler TD that €1 million has been allocated to secure this centre for Waterford and the south east. The Minister must now outline when the centre will be delivered. Clarity is now needed from the Minister on staffing requirements and the timeline for opening this centre. I will keep this on the Dáil agenda until the promise is fully delivered.”
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