Seán Boyle (24) died on 1 June 2020 in intensive care after attempting suicide on 28 May, just 21 hours after being admitted to Craigavon Area hospital.
His mother Sinéad is now campaigning — with the support of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council — for Stormont to implement the Substance Use Strategy 2021-31 aimed at tackling addictions.
In chambers this week, Sinn Fein councillor Mickey Larkin brought forward a motion, saying: “This evening I bring this motion with a lived experience, not by myself, but by the mother of young man Seán Boyle who took his own life in 2020.
“His mother, Sinéad is with us this evening and also Councillor Clare McConville-Walker from ABC (Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon) council, who are attempting to progress with this issue across the North.”
Sinead Boyle, Cllr Mickey Larkin and Cllr Clare McConville-Walker
Seán’s death happened days after he was admitted to the Bluestone psychiatric unit.
The Southern Health Trust, which runs the unit, was at one point being investigated for corporate manslaughter.
An inquest into the circumstances around the Dromintee’s man’s death is due to take place with a date yet to be confirmed.
The Trust has previously said it is unable to comment on specific issues around Seán’s death as the coroner carries out an investigation.
Mr Larkin added: “Seán like so many of our young people fell into a circle of drugs, one which he and his mother fought so hard to get out of over the years.
“There was nothing they didn’t try, there was nothing they wouldn’t have been willing to try.
“Seán wanted his life back, he wanted people to listen to him and he repeatedly told his mummy, they they were not listening.
“Seán’s story highlights the vicious circle of drugs and mental health issues, that eventually led to him taking his own life.
“Tonight, we are listening. We are listening with his mother, who with her strength and determination is trying to improve things for others who find themselves in the same situation as Seán did.
“I met Seán a number of times. He was a quiet, warm young man, the world was his oyster, it really was.
“But, Seán was in a dark place and was seeking help, but that help was not forthcoming.”
Sean Boyle takes a selfie from his bed during one of his many hospital stays due to his addiction problems. (Credit: Boyle family)
The motion referred to the recent 2024, NISRA (Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency) report on drug-related and drug misuse deaths, which found a significant increase in the number of deaths attributed to drugs and alcohol.
The NISRA figures also show that drug related deaths are highest among 25-34 year olds.
Seán had used drugs since he was a teenager and had been in hospital many times over the years of his addiction.
Mr Larkin said: “The 2021-31, Substance Use Strategy has 57 listed actions under five headings. We are asking that these are actioned to prevent the devastating loss of our young citizens.
“I know this will resonate with everyone in this chamber. You don’t have to look to far to see in our own communities the drug abuse and mental health issues are causing serious difficulties to many individuals and families.
“I do implore you all to support this motion and join in the campaign to see our drug rehabilitation services developed here in the North. This motion is for Seán Boyle. Hopefully it can make a difference.”