Alliance backs newspaper pressure to help tackle suicides

10.12.30am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 10th Sep 2007

Alliance Health Spokesperson Kieran McCarthy MLA

Alliance Health Spokesperson Kieran McCarthy MLA has said that more cash must be redirected by the Executive to suicide prevention strategies. He praised the four daily newspapers who published the statement on the matter today because they have put this important issue to the top of the news agenda again.

The Strangford MLA, Mr McCarthy, said: "The time for talk is over. What we need is more action from the Health Minister.

"While I recognise that some funding has already been provided by the Minister for suicide prevention, more is needed.

"I know that the Executive has financial constraints; however, they have the power to redirect resources, and tackling this issue simply must be made a priority.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to praise the four daily newspapers who have published the statement today, helping to put suicide prevention back at the top of the news agenda. I hope that their pressure will pay off and that the Minister will act to provide more funding for tackling this devastating issue."

ENDS