Fórsa’s South Dublin South Leinster SNA branch has offered support to children and union members in Tallaght, following the tragic deaths of siblings Lisa Cash, Chelsea and Christy Cawley earlier this month.

Activists who live and work in the local community mobilised to show solidarity to those affected. Chair of the branch Annette Murphy and membership officer Pamela Larkin explained that the branch took the initiative of sending flowers and providing cakes and treats for the children in the schools affected by way of a show of support. “We’ve also had reps calling into both schools to offer support,” they said.

Fórsa official Shane Lambert praised the work of the branch: “This is a uniquely difficult time for those living and working in the area. The community has been rocked and it’s comforting to see our SNA branch supporting their community at a time of profound shock and sadness,” he said.

Fórsa’s education division has implemented additional supports for the community, extending the member counselling and support service to Fórsa members and their colleagues, and those affected who are close to the community, including parents and siblings.

Shane added: “We reached out to ARAG, the counselling service which provides our counselling and support service for members, and they immediately stepped up and agreed to offer the supports available to all members of the school family and these close to the community.”

Fórsa members affected by the tragedy in Tallaght seeking counselling and support services should call 1800 776655 and state that they have been affected.  

The division is also working to expand an in-person service to support group sessions in response to tragedies or incidents in the school community. Work on this is ongoing but had already commenced in light of previous incidents that had occurred within schools over the past year.

The Fórsa counselling and support line can be reached on 1800 776655

There’s never been a better time to join a union, and it’s never been easier. Join Fórsa today.