Iarnród Éireann Launches Partnership with the Elephant in the Room Movement
04 Márta 2025
A chance encounter on the road has led to a powerful new collaboration between Iarnród Éireann and the Elephant in the Room Movement, is bringing mental health awareness to the heart of Iarnród Éireann’s road fleet.
Last year, Iarnród Éireann’s Maintenance Fleet Manager, Thomas Heffernan, spotted the striking Elephant in the Room van while driving on the M7. Inspired by its message, he reached out to discuss bringing the campaign to the Iarnród Éireann fleet. Now, that vision has become a reality, with the first of four Iarnród Éireann maintenance vans proudly carrying the Elephant in the Room design.
The launch event took place at Iarnród Éireann’s Inchicore Works, where key members of the initiative gathered to unveil the newly branded van alongside one of the signature Elephant in the Room sculptures. This collaboration is a testament to the power of visibility in mental health awareness—turning everyday moments on the road into opportunities for meaningful conversation.
Speaking at the launch, Thomas Heffernan said: “Mental health affects us all, and having these vans out on the road is a way to keep this vital conversation going. These four vans will be fully branded with the Elephant in the room logo sending out a powerful message to start that conversation and raise awareness around issues we often feel difficult to discuss. Keep your eye out for these vans, which will be on the road from early March”
Brent Pope, founder of the Elephant in the Room Movement, echoed the sentiment: “Seeing this initiative come to life is incredibly moving. When people see these vans, we want them to pause and remember that mental health matters. No one should suffer in silence.”
This partnership marks an important step in bringing mental health awareness to communities across Ireland, with the Iarnród Éireann maintenance fleet becoming moving advocates for open conversations and support.
For more information on the Elephant in the Room Movement, visit elephantintheroom.ie.