Tree of Hope a beacon for those struggling with mental health

A TREE of Hope was recently planted in Saggart village in remembrance of those who have died by suicide, and also as a beacon of hope for those struggling with their mental health.

The Saggart Village Residents’ Assocation held a small tree-planting ceremony on November 27 to mark the occasion.

The tree was donated by South Dublin County Council, and is located in the new village plaza site in Saggart.

Lynn Tierney, from the Saggart Village Residents’ Assocation, told The Echo: “The council had created the village plaza and there were always going to be trees planted there.

“One of the [residents’ association’s] committee members said, ‘Wouldn’t it be nice to have a Tree of Hope for people in the community for a focal point and to reflect?’”

South Dublin County Council was receptive to the idea and donated the tree to the residents’ association. The tree was planted in advance of the ceremony last month.

The tree-planting ceremony was a reflective event, with musician and local schoolteacher Ben Davis performing during the ceremony, while local writer Mervyn Ennis read his moving poem ‘Sometimes’.

Ms Tierney added: “The ceremony was a reflective event where members of the community were welcome to join.

“The tree itself was donated and planted by South Dublin County Council the previous day. On the day of the ceremony, the stake, plaque and first ribbons were added to the tree.”

Fr John Gilligan from St Mary’s Church was provided with some yellow ribbons which are kept at the back of the church so residents can take one and attach it to the tree in their own time.

Residents are also welcome to bring their own yellow ribbons and attach them to the tree, according to Ms Tierney.

If you have been affected by the issues raised in this article, please contact Samaritans on 116 123, Aware on 1800 804 848, Pieta House on 1800 247 247, Jigsaw on 1800 544 729 or text TALK to 50808.