Adams Calls For Suicide Prevention Strategy

Gerry Adams has called for an alliance between the North and South governments to create a strategy in tackling suicide.

The president of Sinn Fein spoke to a conference held by the party at Stormont, demanding that suicide prevention be pushed to the top of the Executive's policy agenda.

He said that the Assembly had mandated the Health Committee last week to carry out an enquiry into suicide.

According to official records, 645 people committed suicide on both sides of the border in 2005.

By 2006, the number had increased to nearly 800, with 291 people in Northern Ireland taking their own lives.

It is also reported that 1 in 5 people across the province have mental health needs.

Mr Adams said he knew that Michael McGimpsey, NI Health Minister, understood the urgency of the issue and he welcomed the establishment of the Ministerial Task Force.

The west Belfast MP said: "We are still far short of the concerted, integrated all Ireland action lead by champions in government north and south. Targets for suicide reduction need to be set.

"With practical and measurable steps, and proper and effective resources, we can begin to tackle this crisis and dispel the panic and fear about suicide."

(LC/SP)