Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 February 2015
125. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will consider flying the amber flag from his Department buildings, on a chosen day, in order to raise awareness of the amber flag programme, which works to raise awareness of mental health issues within second level schools, sports clubs and youth organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6423/15]
View answerI welcome this worthwhile initiative which is aimed at colleges, schools, clubs and other youth organisations, the objective of which, is to encourage such organisations to put in place programmes to combat suicide and promote positive mental health.
I am informed that the Amber Flag scheme is one where the flag is earned following the introduction of mental health programs for young people within an organisation. The application form, which must be completed in order to participate in the project, requires the applicant organisation to confirm that "permission has been obtained for photos of our students to be used in conjunction with the Amber Flag initiative". Given the focus of the Amber Flag initiative, a Government department is not within the intended scope of the project; the flying of flags at Government Departments is governed by protocol to State flags.
Suicide Aware, the Voluntary Organisation that developed the Amber Flag concept, is to be commended for this initiative, in addition to its project partners, the Institute of Guidance Counsellors and the Union of Students in Ireland.
