Dan Neville (Limerick West, Fine Gael)

I propose to address a specific issue about which I am extremely concerned in the context of the recession and increasing unemployment. International research dating back to 1987 shows that in times of recession the incidence of suicide increases considerably. Research done in every decade since the 1980s has confirmed this is the case.

In times of recession, stress levels increase significantly among those who are rendered unemployed. Mental illness also increases among this group owing to external factors affecting its members. Depressive illness, which contributes to suicide, increases, as do financial difficulties. As we are aware, financial problems can give rise to a belief that one cannot deal with one's circumstances other than by taking the desperate act of ending one's life.

Health problems also increase among those who are made unemployed. General health problems frequently result in emotional problems and, in some cases, psychiatric illness. Opportunities to engage in education are no longer as widely available in a recession. People who are made unemployed fear for their futures, their families and their homes. They experience anger about the position in which they find themselves, are disappointed and insecure and feel a sense of hopelessness and low self-esteem. This combination is a recipe for serious problems and people will become suicidal. Unfortunately, there will be an increase in the number of people who see no way out of their hopelessness other than to consider taking their lives.

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