Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I do not know how many Members were watching the RTE programme which followed the news last night. It was about the issue of assisting people, some of whom were quite ill, to take their own lives. There was an effort at balance by the inclusion of a person who was opposed to that concept. However, like most RTE programmes on such social issues, there was an editorial agenda. Certainly, judging from the presentation it was obvious where the programme makers stood in supporting that issue. It troubled me, not only because of the actual issue but by the manner in which it was presented. I kept asking myself about young people. We have a tremendous problem in this country at present given the level of suicide. One can think back on the number of times we have had debates in this House about people being killed in traffic accidents. It was a significant issue and was often highlighted in this Chamber and in the Lower House. As a consequence, efforts were made and the numbers of deaths have been reduced to about half the original number. The number of suicides, however, is twice that of those killed annually on the roads. This is a matter of great concern and has been raised here by other Members.

I have concerns about the manner in which these programmes are presented. I am not an expert, not being a psychologist or psychiatrist. However, I ask Members who are on the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children to raise this issue and perhaps get some professional psychiatric advice in order to see what effect this type of programme that, so to speak, makes suicide look like a very reasonable decision for people to take, has on the minds of people who are troubled and who might find themselves taking that course because it has been presented as a reasonable option.

Will the Leader ask for a timely debate on the issue of suicide? There are many people involved, including Deputy Dan Neville on the Government side who has done great work in this area. I would like to acknowledge that, as I am sure would others.

We should highlight the issue and ask the Minister to focus on it as many families have been devastated by the consequences of suicide. I would not like to think that the liberal elements in RTE, which seem to be in control, would in some way shape society with their notions that would cause angst in many families.