Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 May 2013
655. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health his views on the rates of suicide in the Traveller community, which seem to be at a much higher level than in the general population, with Traveller men six times more likely to die through suicide and Traveller women five times more likely to die through suicide than the general population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24081/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraSuicide is a tragedy that we are constantly working to prevent and we are also working to give more support to the families affected. Dealing with the current high levels of suicide and deliberate self harm is a priority for this Government. Reach Out our National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention makes a number of recommendations in relation to fast track referrals to community-based mental health services, effective response to deliberate self harm, training, stigma reduction, etc. Consequently, the HSE's National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP) has developed a range of initiatives to support people who are suicidal and also to support their families, friends and peers in recognising and responding appropriately to signs of emotional distress and suicidal thoughts. Area 15 of Reach Out deals with marginalised groups including Travellers.
Suicide within the Traveller community was shown to be a major problem by the findings of the All-Ireland Traveller Health Study which was published in 2010. This study determines Traveller suicide rates to be significantly higher than in the general population.
There has been a significant amount of work done with groups, providing information, conducting training and developing resources. The National Traveller Suicide Awareness Project (NTSAP) is a collaboration of Traveller organisations, the NOSP and Exchange House and it has been at the forefront of promoting awareness within the Traveller community and amongst healthcare providers and a spectrum of support services. Crosscare National Traveller Suicide Awareness Project has been funded by the NOSP and is working to develop a response to the issue of Traveller suicide. The project works directly with around 500 Travellers per year and indirectly through networking at national, regional and local events. The project also provides support in prevention and postvention situations.
In 2012, the project focused on engaging Traveller men as a key priority along with providing ongoing support to groups in developing appropriate responses to address the identified needs. A particular focus on bereavement support was identified along with developing more meaningful relationships with mental health services.
Overall, fourteen men's groups received funding from NOSP in 2012; networking was initiated and awareness was raised pertaining to the work of the project. As well as funding NTSAP and the male Traveller development project the NOSP also funds the delivery of ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) and Safetalk to Traveller groups. All agencies funded by NOSP are required to be available to, and work with, minority groups.
