Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I apologise on behalf of Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin, who could not be present for this session.

I thank Senator Gilroy for the very important body of work he undertook. I thank the witnesses for their presentations and I commend each of them for the very important work they do. Everyone has been affected in some way by death by suicide. The work done on this is very important to the committee. All of us are on a continuous learning curve.

A point was made on comparing trends in suicide in Ireland to those in neighbouring countries. Suicide rates in Scotland decreased by 18% between 2002 and 2012. Why did the suicide rates there decrease? Does it have better resources than here or is it how suicides are reported? A proposal was made to undertake a comparative study of suicide trends involving experts on suicide research and prevention from the five nations. Do witnesses agree with this?

Alcohol is a significant factor in mental health but there seems to be a reluctance to acknowledge this. During one of the presentations it was stated there was a 41% increase in alcohol consumption per head of population over the ten years to 2000. I presume all of the witnesses agree a decrease in alcohol consumption would lead to a decrease in suicide. Our relationship with alcohol in this country leaves much to be desired. As a nation we are completely in denial about the effects of alcohol.

It should be mandatory for all schools to take part in an education programme. Considering some of the programmes outlined this morning I am absolutely astonished, and it is hard to believe, that some schools do not partake in them. It is essential they are all encouraged to do so.

There is no doubt the number of deaths recorded as suicide or intentional self-harm under-represent the true numbers. Suicides are under-reported. What do witnesses believe are the real figures? Do they have a percentage of by how much they feel the figures are under-reported?

It was stated the National Office for Suicide Prevention requires greater resources and significant financial investment if it is to carry out its work more effectively. This was also mentioned with regard to mental health issues and people's medical cards being discontinued. Many people who may have mental health issues present to our constituency offices. They are often the most vulnerable and have difficulties with getting on housing lists, getting their entitlements and having their medical cards discontinued. The very people who need less stress than others are often those stressed out more. I have had instances of people not taking medication because they cannot afford it although they really need it. Recently I spoke to a lady whose medical card was taken off her and whose husband was working. He did not understand her depression and need for medication and told her she did not need the tablets and to get on with it. Many issues arise which we do not accept and do not really understand.

There is a lack of consistency in how families are dealt with in the Coroner's Court. I presume this is a resource issue. How can it be improved? I thank the witnesses for their positive recommendations. I am sure they will be very useful to the committee.