Murders in Sydney

Sir, – In the few days since the horrific murders in a Sydney shopping centre, Ireland has shown its remarkable humanity, because Irish heart and heartfelt care really do extend around the world.

Irish people have contacted us at the Australian Embassy. Irish TDs, Senators and Ministers, Taoiseach Simon Harris, Tánaiste Micheál Martin, Opposition leader Mary Lou McDonald, embassies in Ireland and leaders of business and sport have touched us with their condolences and sympathy.

As we grieve the terrible events in Sydney, Irish love and understanding reaches out to us.

Thank you to all who have expressed their condolences or have offered prayer.

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We know the murders were borne of mental health complications and while we feel deeply for the families who lost loved ones, people with schizophrenia are “more likely to be the victims rather than perpetrators of violence”.

These are the thoughts of internationally acknowledged mental health expert, professor and Irish Australian Pat McGorry. We do need to do more to understand mental health and to support people who suffer.

We know there were Irish nurses and doctors who cared for the wounded and distressed in Sydney hospitals. We thank them for their care and hard work.

Thank you all. – Yours, etc,

GARY GRAY,

Australian Ambassador to Ireland,

Dublin 2.