Northside unites for Cycle Against Suicide

THE communities of Dublin North united earlier this month for a 50km cycle as part of the Cycle Against Suicide SpinOff series.

A SpinOff is a locally organised cycle that takes place once each month after the main 14-day cycle around the island of Ireland ends.

The events are locally organised, owned by the community and championed by Cycle Against Suicide ‘local leaders.’ 

The Dublin North SpinOff departed from Malahide Community School, Pobalscoil Íosa, and then made its way onto Swords before looping around Dublin Airport.

The halfway stop, and mental health presentation, took place at Ballymun United FC, before the cyclists returned to Malahide via picturesque Portmarnock, taking in the beautiful coastal landscape of Lambay Island, Ireland’s Eye and Howth Head.

Dublin North West TDs, Dessie Ellis (SF) and Roisin Shortall (SD) were in Ballymun to meet the cyclists.

“There was over 250 riders on the day and it was a fantastic occasion,” said Deputy Ellis.

“Fair play to all who organised and attended, as well as the club who hosted it. I firmly believe we need more events like this to highlight suicide and mental health issues in our communities.

“This should start with 24/7 crisis intervention services and we must also remove stigma surrounding mental health issues.”