Mr. John Meehan:

I have to reflect on presentations to the committee from this and the previous two meetings. We have to listen to the stories. Suicide has a significant impact on any community, individuals and family members, particularly among prioritised groups, with the stigma associated with it. We need to work collaboratively on education, training and specific cultural training. Senator Freeman alluded to it earlier. I recently spoke to colleagues from New Zealand and the USA. The research shows that we have to provide training, even including undergraduate nurse, medical, psychology or social work training on cultural competency, especially relating to Travellers. It has to start with education in schools.

The Chairman asked specifically about Travellers. The statistics do not show us whether somebody who has died by suicide is from the Traveller community. However, I acknowledge the reports and the feedback to this committee. There are 17 local Connecting for Life plans. The needs of my home county, Donegal, are different from those of Dublin. It is important to tap into the information and knowledge there. One has to recognise that there is much input and we have an action plan for Connecting for Life.

Statistically, the rates of suicide are reducing and I cannot give a specific reason that is the case. We do know, however, that rates have increased among middle aged men, whereas during the recession they increased among younger people.