Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

Senator Twomey referred to suicide. A strong correlation has been proved between alcohol consumption and suicide. In many cases there are traces of alcohol present in the victim. Last evening I attended a seminar in the audio visual room, organised by Senator Mary White. It was very interesting and I commend the Senator for her innovative approach. This is an issue for society that will not go away if we close our eyes. We must face facts.

I spent a long time with people who had a suicidal ideation. I must confess that after 30 years in a service that dealt with potential suicide cases, I was as wise beginning as when I left because every suicide is different. The risk associated with young males is seven times that of females of the same age category, a worrying factor. The talk by a member of Meath County Council was very fine, relating her experience concerning suicide. I ask the Leader and Senator White to arranged a debate in the new year. We have had debates here before. I was part of the Oireachtas sub-committee on suicide. Although I do not say so because I was a member, the report we published was worthwhile.

I raised the question of organ donation on two occasions. A gentleman in Westmeath telephones me ad nauseam on this matter. His contention — and he is right — is that our approach to organ donation infers burying life with death. Important organs that could help others live are interred. I know something about the issue, having lost a sister and a brother to road fatalities. The issues to which I refer could be dealt with in the new year.