Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

There has been much concern and a debate in this House recently about the terrible toll arising from road traffic accidents. Is the Taoiseach aware the number of deaths on our roads is exceeded by the number of deaths from suicide and that we have one of the highest rates of suicide in the world? It is the most common cause of death among young people and in particular among young males between the ages of 15 and 24, our statistics within that age group being the highest in the EU. Will the Taoiseach agree that what is needed is a much greater awareness of this serious problem and an understanding of it? In that context, does he share my concerns at the comments attributed to Deputy McDaid at the weekend where he has accused people of glorifying suicide victims at their funerals? He has described suicide acts where he stated mental illness was not a factor, as being selfish acts.

My purpose is not to personalise this issue but to highlight the need for greater awareness. We need to avoid statements such as that of Deputy McDaid, which only stigmatise people and create even greater distress for families which are already suffering the bereavement of the loss of a loved one.

Are there suicides where the mental health of the person who took their own life and particularly at the time of their death, is not in question? I do not know the answer but I wonder if Deputy McDaid is making that point. When Deputy McDaid criticises the bearing of the remains of someone who has died by suicide up the centre aisle of their respective chapel or church, is he suggesting they should be condemned from the pulpit or interred outside the consecrated grounds of their local cemetery, a terrible practice that was maintained for generations? Will the Taoiseach agree there are social factors such as unemployment, alcoholism, physical and sexual abuse and relationship breakdown, which can often be the backdrop to many of these tragedies? Will the Taoiseach not recognise that given the enormity of the problem across this State, and across this island as statistics North of the Border have demonstrated recently, that what is needed is to fully resource and implement the National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention 2005-2014? Will the Taoiseach seek the co-operation of all who have a role to play and a contribution to make under the All-Ireland Ministerial Council, to give this issue the strategic consideration it needs and the strategic address it deserves, given the great hurt that exists?

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