O’Shea Welcomes Launch of Free Counselling Supports for Men at National Ploughing Championships

Cork North West Fine Gael TD, Deputy John Paul O’Shea, has welcomed the announcement by Government of new, free counselling supports for men, which was launched at this year’s National Ploughing Championships.

The new initiative will provide over 15,000 free counselling sessions annually and has been specifically designed to meet the needs and preferences of men who may otherwise be reluctant to seek mental health support. The services will be accessible both through GPs and via a new dedicated campaign, with information available at www.yourmentalhealth.ie/men

Deputy O’Shea said “This is a hugely important step forward in ensuring men across Cork North West, and indeed across the country, have access to mental health supports when and where they need them. From Duhallow to Muskerry and right across our rural parishes, we know the pressures men face are very real – whether it’s the financial stresses of farming, isolation in rural areas, or the everyday challenges of work and family life. Too often, men suffer in silence. By making counselling sessions free, visible, and accessible, this initiative will encourage men to take that first step in reaching out for help.”

The programme, backed by €2 million in recurring annual funding, will not only provide direct counselling support but will also fund outreach and targeted mental health promotion, including initiatives to support young Traveller men and wider awareness campaigns.

Deputy O’Shea continued “I particularly welcome the strong focus on farmers and rural men, who are the backbone of communities like ours in Cork North West. The Ploughing Championships is the perfect setting for this launch, as it reflects the reality of rural life and provides a platform to encourage men to look after their wellbeing. This initiative will complement the work already being done on farmer wellbeing and safety, and it will make a difference for many families in our area.”

“I commend the Government on this issue. The message is clear; support is there, and no man should feel alone when facing mental health difficulties. I strongly encourage men of all ages in Cork North West to avail of these services through their local GP or online at www.yourmentalhealth.ie/men. Taking that step can be life changing, concluded Deputy O’Shea”.