It is a great advance that many of those who have attempted suicide and their families can talk publicly in groups on radio and television about this tragic issue. Their courage is immense. I hope it will increase the knowledge of researchers and lead to a greater understanding of the motivation behind this drastic action. Research initiatives such as the suicide research group of the health boards are grappling with the issue. The report of the national task force on suicide was published in 1998 and its recommendations have been taken on board. The national suicide review group was established in 1998 to co-ordinate research and make recommendations to the chief executive officers of the health boards. Its reports are of primary importance emphasising the three pronged approach of prevention, intervention and aftercare.