Jack Hartnett | Staff Writer
The Student Counselling Service, in conjunction with Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union (TCDSU) and Q Soc, Trinity’s LGBT society, have put plans in place to provide support for students affected by the marriage equality referendum.
In the week following the referendum, there will be extra availability and further emergency appointment slots in the Student Counselling Service to assist any student negatively affected by the outcome of the vote. Speaking to The University Times, Dr Deirdre Flynn, Head of the Student Counselling Service, said: “The Service provides daily drop in brief consultation appointments and emergency appointments for students in need. These will be available to any student following the referendum result. The SCS appreciates the emotive nature of the campaigns and the diversity of perspectives and opinions on the outcome.”
Furthermore, Ian Mooney, Welfare Officer of TCDSU, and Q Soc plan to create a safe space in House 6 in the days following the vote for anyone who wants to discuss the referendum. Mooney will also been on call throughout the weekend of May 22nd. Mooney hopes that these supports will not be needed. However, he recognises that marriage equality is “an emotional and personal topic for a lot of people”. Speaking to The University Times, Mooney stressed that “the plans are in place for anyone who is affected by the results and the referendum as a whole, regardless of what the outcome is.”
These efforts come in wake of the intensifying emotions surrounding the referendum as polling day draws near. In recent weeks, a No poster featuring a young male with the Trinity front gates in the background caused uproar from students and the Provost alike. Similarly, a mural on George’s Street of two men also amplified the friction between the campaigns. It is hoped that these measures will diffuse tensions in the aftermath of one of the most debated and emotive referendums in recent times.
Q Soc did not respond to a request for comment.
Any student seeking support of the Student Counselling Service following the referendum result, or for any reason, can make an appointment by calling (01) 896 1407. If students need to be seen urgently, they should request an emergency appointment. Students can also contact TCDSU Welfare Officer, Ian Mooney, on 086 159 5178.
Photo by Edmund Heaphy for The University Times
