Mayo coroner seeks action after multiple deaths at riverside jetty
Dr Eleanor Fitzgerald has called for action after a number of suicides at the jetty on the River Moy in Ballina.
The coroner for North Mayo has recommended that action be taken to remove or secure a jetty on the River Moy that has been the scene of a number of recent suicides,
Dr Eleanor Fitzgerald made the comments at Ballina Courthouse last Friday during the inquest of a 46-year-old man who took his own life at the Ballina jetty in April of this year.
Tony Boland of the Grainne Uaile Sub Aqua Club told the inquest that there had been up to three people who taken their own life by jumping into the water at the jetty in recent months.
Mr Boland said he has been tasked with five searches at the Bachelor’s Walk location during his time with the club.
The volunteer explained to the inquest that a lock had been in place at the jetty but it was removed and never replaced.
Dr Fitzgerald said the jetty is clearly a “dangerous place” which is too easily accessible. She believes people who are in a “fragile state of mind” have become drawn or attracted to the jetty.
“I strongly recommend that the powers-that-be put some protection or barriers in place or remove the jetty,” remarked the coroner.
“For the protection of life, it’s something we have to look at.
"The loss of life is something that we should try and prevent," Dr Fitzgerald added.
