§ Lord Eamesasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is the suicide rate in Northern Ireland; and whether they consider that the suicide rate is now at a level demanding increased government concern and action. [HL1064]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Northern Ireland Office (Lord Dubs)The suicide rate in 1997, the latest year for which this figure is available, was 7.2 suicides per 100,000 population. While suicides over the last number of years have not shown a significant increase, they remain a cause of concern and the Government are taking action to prevent further tragic deaths. This action includes the establishment of a regional task force which will consider the issue of suicide in the context of a wider strategy to promote positive mental health and wellbeing.