Political parties kicking off in football fest to support suicide charity PIPS

'Suicide is a hugely emotive issue and PIPS do great work raising awareness and tackling the problems other people often shy away from' – Mary Kate Quinn

THIS SUNDAY, Sinn Féin Republican Youth will take part in a cross-party soccer tournament to help raise much-needed funds for the suicide awareness charity, PIPS.

Teams will also be fielded by the Ulster Unionist Party, SDLP and Alliance.

The event will take place at the famous Seaview stadium of Crusaders FC in north Belfast and there’s an invitation to all sports enthusiasts from across the political divide to turn up to show their support for PIPS.

Speaking at the launch of the event in Seaview, Sinn Féin Ard Chomhairle and National Youth Committee member Mary-Kate Quinn (right) said:

“Suicide is among one of the most important issues affecting all our young people. In 2011, somewhere in the region of 530 people in Ireland took their own lives. It is a hugely emotive issue and PIPS do great work raising awareness and tackling the problems other people often shy away from.

“The charity depend solely on donations and fundraisers like this to continue the great work they do in our communities so it’s great to get out and about to help such a charity in whatever way we can.”

The stadium is open to spectators from 9:30am with the first kick-off at 10am.

Sinn Féin Deputy Mayor of Belfast Tierna Cunningham will be on hand to help present the winners’ trophy at around 2pm.

There’s no cost involved but any donations would be greatly appreciated.