MUNSTER, Ireland and Lions rugby star Keith Earls has signed up to tackle the serious issue of suicide in Limerick as an ambassador for the Corbett Suicide Prevention Patrol.
The city suicide group that patrols the River Shannon made contact with the 26-year-old Moyross man through Munster head offices last month. And, according to Paul Hogan of the voluntary group, Earls was quick to pledge his support.
“We are about prevention but we are also about awareness. We have been asked to give lots of talks on the issue of suicide and the fact that Keith Earls has now given us his support will help raise our profile,” Mr Hogan said.
“When we contacted Keith, he said he was well aware of the work we do. We are absolutely delighted to have such a well-known ambassador for our organisation. His support will help raise more awareness and the more we talk about this issue, the better,” he explained.
The CSPP have been involved in over 80 interventions along the Shannon since setting up over a year ago. The volunteer suicide group have also launched a new helpline number — 085-2120987 — for families who might be concerned about a loved one who is missing.
The group will hold a fundraising event at Limerick Greyhound Stadium on March 29 next. Tickets cost €10 and are available via the voluntary group’s facebook page.
