Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 845: To ask the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the bullying and suicide prevention programme (details supplied); his views on the merits of the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35303/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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am not aware of the programme referred to by the Deputy. The Government regards suicide prevention as a priority. Additional funding is being provided this year out of the special €35m announced in the budget for mental health to advance implementation of Reach Out, our national strategy in this area. Mental Health promotion is also part of the Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) programme in our schools.

The Health Service Executive, the Department of Education and Skills and the Department of Health have over recent months been working together to develop specific guidelines for schools in Ireland on mental health promotion and suicide prevention and this work is at an advanced stage. It is vital that we ensure that any resource or programme which is aimed at children and young people is in line with these guidelines. In this context, have sent a copy of the programme on bullying and suicide referred to by the Deputy to the Director of the National Office for Suicide Prevention for consideration.