by Bernie English
LIMERICK-based voluntary group Corbett Suicide Prevention Patrol (CSPP) has officially taken residence in its new home at the Potato Market on Merchant’s Quay.
At the cutting of the ribbon, CSPP ambassador Keith Earls said: “It’s an absolute privilege to be here today. I know Limerick is proud of you and what you’re doing.”
Originally CSPP kept its equipment in a space that was little more than the size of a garden hut, which proved to be a problem as their gear became damp and they began to run out of room to store equipment.
The group approached the Limerick Civic Trust and was given the space at the Potato Market. Thanks to funds provided by SES in Shannon, they were able to dry line, plaster, paint and put a kitchen into its new base. They are now able to properly store their equipment and have a comfortable place which also serves as a meeting room and a space for debriefing after patrols.
On a typical night, the group sends out a team of three people on foot and two on bikes to patrol Limerick’s bridges in an 8-loop, explained vice chairman David Crowe. The patrols set out from 9pm to 1am on weeknights and midnight to 4am on weekends, as well as on days known to see an increase in suicide.
“It’s not for everyone,” said Mr Crowe about the work the group does, noting that many people become uncomfortable at the mention of the term ‘suicide’, but he continued to say that it hopes to expand its team from 35 to 40 volunteers in the future.
Mike McNamara explained that the group relies on fundraising efforts such as raffles and quiz nights, as well as donations by people and organisations, including the bikes which were kindly donated to CSPP by Frank Hogan. The liaison officer said that the bikes were “vital for the patrol; they enable us to travel the route at extra speed.”
CSPP also works closely with Limerick Marine Search and Rescue, acting as its eyes and contacting them through the coastguard when need be.
