The Taoiseach Enda Kenny may have been busy on state visit to Canada this past weekend, but the Fine Gael leader took time out from his trip to highlight a serious issue.
Mr Kenny who was visited Toronto last week, took time from his hectic schedule to join in the Darkness into Light suicide prevention awareness walk which is organised by Pieta House every year.
Taking to social media the Taoiseach pledged his support to the cause by uploading a video of himself taking part with the following message.
“We’re here in Toronto by Lake Ontario at 5.30am in the morning in the rain.”
“We’re joined here by 1,000 people who are walking from darkness into light for Pieta House.
“I would say to you wherever you are, Irish or not, all over the world, support what Pieta House is doing.”
“Because mental health challenges do not know any borders, they don’t know any boundaries and they affect every family sooner or later.”
“I’m privileged and proud as Taoiseach of our country to walk with these 1,000 people here in Toronto this morning.”
“Do what you can to help them, they need you. Bless you.”
Although his video received support from many across the country, the Taoiseach has received widespread criticism from a number of people on social media with many calling his support hypocritical given that he and the Government enforced unnecessary cuts to the mental health budget.
It’s just after 6am here in Toronto – a huge crowd for #DIL2017 – if you are suffering please share your pain – you are never alone. pic.twitter.com/9fWdA491jk
— Enda Kenny (@EndaKennyTD) 6 May 2017