FINE Gael councillor Daniel Butler proposed that Limerick City and County Council consider the development of a Butterfly Garden for families affected by miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal, infant, and young baby loss.
Speaking at the September monthly meeting of the Metropolitan District, Cllr Butler suggested the proposed Mungret Sensory Garden as a suitable location.
He believes such a development would give families a place to go to find comfort, remember their little ones, and know they are not alone during what is often a very lonely and difficult time.
“This came to my attention from a group that’s actually campaigning on this particular issue,” he said. “There are many families affected and I know there are Butterfly Gardens in other parts of the country as well.”
“I think a space that has been identified in Mungret for quiet reflection, especially when we’re all leading busy lives, has potential.”
Cllr Olivia O’Sullivan (FG) seconded the motion, adding that: “This is somebody who has suffered personally with losing a pregnancy and how difficult it is at that time.”
“Having people close to me, you know, stillbirth is on a whole other level. It’s a devastating thing to happen to people. It’s a time when people can feel extremely alone.”
She added that “somewhere (people) can go, where other people have been that are going through the same struggles at that time, would bring some comfort.”
The Council said it will consider a Butterfly Garden as part of the proposed Mungret Sensory Garden.
