Jimmy Devins (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

Suicide is an issue which affects every element of our society. The impact on people bereaved by suicide and whole communities caught up in its aftermath is shattering and closure can be hard to find. International evidence shows that reducing the suicide rate requires a collective, concerted effort from all groups in society, including health services, social services, other professionals, communities and community leaders, voluntary and statutory agencies and organisations. It also requires fostering the development of a culture in which people in psychological distress do not hesitate to seek help and a culture that recognises the signs and signals of distress and is willing to help.

Thankfully, the level of discussion and openness on mental health issues, including suicide and self harm, has increased significantly in recent years. This is a very welcome development but we still have a long way to go. We should be encouraged by the progress that has been made to date in Ireland, in particular, the launch of two important strategy documents, Reach Out — A National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention, which was launched in the south of Ireland in September 2005 after an extensive consultation and examination of the research evidence, and Protect Life, which was launched in Northern Ireland in October 2006 following a similar process of consultation. Both strategies set out plans over an agreed time period ranging from general population approaches to improve awareness and education to specific plans for special groups of identified vulnerable people. The establishment of the HSE's National Office for Suicide Prevention plays a vital part in developing and progressing suicide prevention policies.

The action areas identified in Reach Out have led to the implementation of national training programmes, the availability of self-harm services in accident and emergency departments throughout the country, a review of bereavement services and support for voluntary organisations working in the field of suicide prevention.

In light of the increased information around suicide and self harm, it has been agreed with the National Office for Suicide Prevention that an interim target of a 10% reduction in suicide be achieved by 2010. In addition, it has been agreed that a 5% reduction in repeated self harm be achieved by 2010 and a further 5% reduction be achieved by 2016. I know that tackling the problem is not easy but we simply must continue to strive relentlessly to prevent the further tragic loss of lives.

Last month, I had the pleasure of launching Your Mental Health, the national mental health awareness campaign to promote positive mental health.

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