Seanad debates

Thursday, 27 February 2003

Suicide Incidence: Statements.

 

The Minister of State highlighted a number of initiatives which have been taken. I understand Finland has a state policy in this area. Others measures include tackling the problems of alcohol and drug abuse, especially among the young; the provision of counselling services for families; and outreach services for communities. I also advocate the targeting of the children who fall out of the system as we have a particular problem with early school leaving. There has been a push recently in the United Kingdom against children who engage in truancy, some of those who slip through the net. While there has been much talk about young people in particular, we should also increase awareness of suicide among the elderly. Late life should be promoted as a valuable time in a person's life.

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