John Moloney (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Reach Out — A National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention, provides a policy framework for suicide prevention activities in Ireland. Implementation of the strategy is the responsibility of the Health Service Executive.

Initiatives funded by the HSE's National Office for Suicide Prevention include developing and implementing national training programmes, completing the availability of self-harm services through A&E departments, implementing recommendations arising from a review of bereavement services, dedicated suicide officers, supporting voluntary organisations working in the field of suicide prevention and developing mental health awareness campaigns. It should also be emphasised that a range of services such as mental health and primary care services are important in helping to prevent suicide. An annual report on the measures taken by the National Office during the preceding year to prevent suicide is laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas each year.

Once-off funding of €1m has been provided in 2009 for further suicide prevention initiatives. The funding will be used to develop campaigns aimed at young people and to further develop services for those bereaved by suicide.