Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

I am taking this matter on behalf of my colleague, the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Mary Harney, who sends her apologies as she was unable to take it herself. I thank Deputy Neville for raising this matter. It provides a very timely opportunity to highlight all of our concerns about the high levels of suicide among the Traveller community.

This is particularly relevant to this evening's debate. In the past, much of the information relating to the issue of suicide among the Traveller community was based on anecdotal evidence. In recent years research has been carried out which has aimed to identify the specific issues which need to be addressed when tackling suicide among this community.

I refer in particular to two reports: Moving Beyond Coping, an insight into the experiences and needs of Travellers in dealing with the experience of suicide, launched in November 2006 by Tallaght Travellers Youth Service; and Suicide Among the Irish Traveller Community 2000-2006, launched on 9 December 2008 by the Wicklow Traveller Interagency Group and Wicklow County Council.

The statistics in the Wicklow report are a stark reminder of the serious issue of suicide, with suicide rates among the Traveller community being three times higher than in non-Traveller communities. Similar to the national trend, suicide in Travellers is predominantly male. Importantly, however, both reports help to highlight ways in which we can tackle this tragic issue. The Moving Beyond Coping report identifies the need to address Traveller mental health issues and depression in particular and it recognises the role of alcohol in suicide. It also highlights the role education plays in assisting young Travellers to avail of equal opportunities in life.

Suicide Among the Irish Traveller Community 2000-2006 indicates that the loss of Traveller identity and culture among younger members of the community may be a contributing factor. These issues must inform suicide prevention initiatives for the Traveller community. I am pleased to say that developments are ongoing in this regard.

The National Office for Suicide Prevention funds a national Travellers' suicide prevention project officer to build on the work of Pavee Point and local Traveller groups. The project is Traveller led and uses a community development approach in carrying out the work. A strategic plan has been developed. Key objectives for the programme include raising awareness around the issue of Traveller suicide and self harm; developing appropriate responses within the community; and working with national organisations to ensure culturally appropriate responses to suicidal behaviour within the Traveller community.

I recognise the many challenges that lie ahead and I am aware that no interventions bring a guarantee of success. International evidence shows that reducing the suicide rate and preventing suicides requires a collective, concerted effort on the part of all groups in society — health, social services and other professionals, communities, voluntary and statutory agencies and organisations, parents, friends and neighbours.

I assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to the implementation of suicide prevention initiatives and the further development of our mental health services to prevent and reduce further tragic loss of life. I assure the Deputy of the Department of Health and Children's commitment to this area.

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