Call for 'Plaques of Courage' along the River Boyne?

LOUISE WALSH
A NAVAN businessman, who has mooted the placement of plaques of courage along the River Boyne to discourage people from taking their own lives, has been overwhelmed by online support.
David Browne made an appeal on Facebook for help and sponsorship with his idea of installing motivational quotes along the riverside in an effort to promote positive thoughts to those in need.

The plaques would contain messages of support to those who may find themselves along the Boyne because of depression, suicidal thoughts or other mental health issues.
The owner of Digital Business Development said: “I was just passing by the River Boyne in Navan the other day and remembered an idea that I've been sitting on for a while and unsure how to develop.

“Since I moved to Navan, the River Boyne has unfortunately taken so many lives. What I'm proposing to do is to install what I call 'plaques of courage' at key points on the river, which would include a motivational quote or message of encouragement alongside the number of a help-line.”
However the father of three from Clogherboy appealed for help to fund the project and help with any planning permission that may be needed.

“I, for one, as a business owner wouldn't hesitate to sponsor one of these plaques and maybe there are other like-minded businesses out there as well.
“Perhaps there is also funding available for such a project. I don't know but I do know that anything that could save even one life is worth looking into.”

Since his post, David says he has been inundated with hundreds of messages of support and help and hopes that this idea might become reality in the coming months.
David is hoping to create a Facebook page for the plaques, but in the meantime, anyone who can offer advice on the project can contact him at davidkbrowne@gmail.com