Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 6 May 1993

Vol. 430 No. 4

Written Answers. - Suicide Statistics.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the total number of male and female suicides in the first five months of each of the years from 1985 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter with particular reference to research existing or contemplated to ascertain the cause.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin):

The information sought by the Deputy is not available in the form requested. However, deaths registered by cause are compiled quarterly by the Central Statistics Office. Figures for the first two quarters of the relevant years are tabulated below. It should be noted that there may be discrepancies between the month in which a death occurs and the month in which it is registered.

Number of Suicides Registered in the First Six Months of Each Year: 1985-1992

Year	Male	Female	Total
1985	84	31	115
1986	106	32	138
1987	95	33	128
1988	101	32	133
1989	81	28	109
1990	110	35	145
1991	123	30	153
1992	132	27	159

The causes of suicide are complex. Changes in the cohesiveness of society, depression, an erosion of traditional values, lack of employment opportunities and social isolation are all factors which can contribute to individual distress. In response to the problem of suicide the health services provide support to those immediately identifiable as distressed.

Research into issues such as suicide is primarily a matter for the Health Research Board and that body has carried out a number of studies in this area. This research has tended to concentrate on suicide rates and on the accuracy of reporting systems.

The Deputy may also wish to note that the Green Paper on Mental Health discusses issues relevant to suicide and attempted suicide.