merrion street

Ms Kathleen Lynch TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health with responsibility for Disability, Mental Health and Older People today (10^th January, 2012) expressed her sadness on hearing of the death of John McCarthy, founder of Mad Pride.

"John McCarthy was a truly inspirational man who was a long time campaigner for mental health reform. In recognition of his work and contribution, I recently appointed him to the Implementation Group for the National Disability Strategy and I was very much looking forward to working with him. I regret that I will not now have that opportunity as people with the drive, determination and infectious enthusiasm that John had are exactly what is needed to bring about meaningful change. Any time I met John, I always came away with a smile and a laugh and I will miss him, both personally and professionally."

"My thoughts, prayers and sympathies are with his wife Liz, son David, daughter Jill and all his family at this time"

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dhílis