Larne's Deputy Mayor, Cllr Mark McKinty, has joined thousands of people around the world in marking World Suicide Prevention Day. The Ulster Unionist representative brought forward a motion to the Public Services meeting of Larne Borough Council on Monday 10th September 2012.
The motion read as follows: "That this Council marks World Suicide Prevention day, Monday 10th September 2012 and, in doing so, commends the endeavours of those local and regional groups who, together with their national and international partners, raise awareness of depression, mental illness and difficult times through their campaign , providing members of the community with essential help, support and solutions to prevent suicide".
Speaking in support of the motion, Cllr McKinty highlighted the extent of the problem: "This is an issue which affects many families, and today we have the opportunity to remember how much of a major public health issue suicide has become: suicide is now the biggest cause of death for males under 35" he said.
"Events have been taking place all over the world to raise awareness of this issue, including events in Belfast and one at Broadway, Larne, as we speak." he continued. "We have the opportunity now to think about those who have committed suicide, have been hospitalised attempting suicide, or those comtemplating taking their own life. We also think of those families and friends affected by the loss of a loved one, left with a void in their home and endless questions".
The motion, seconded by Cllr. James McKeown, received unanimous support from the Councillors present, all agreeing that raising awareness of suicide prevention, and removing the stigma from the topic, was of paramount importance, especially in the local area.
Immediately following the motion, the committee received a presentation from the Northern Trust on the Northern Area Suicide Prevention Community Response Plan. During questions from Councillors, Cllr McKinty stressed that the Health Trusts must work in conjunction with local authorities, existing charitable and voluntary organisations, and all stakeholder groups to ensure an effective joint-up and strategic approach to suicide prevention.
"I thank my fellow councillors for their support this evening, and I wish to record my thanks and encouragement to local groups, such as PIPS and PAL, who are doing fantastic work on the ground with individuals and families affected by suicide" said Cllr McKinty speaking after the meeting. "It is important that all groups work together to raise awareness, and I think that the government should further develop a strategy for suicide prevention. Whether facing financial problems, exam pressures, family issues or whatever difficulties, there are people and organisations to help overcome obstacles and help" he concluded.
The motion read as follows: "That this Council marks World Suicide Prevention day, Monday 10th September 2012 and, in doing so, commends the endeavours of those local and regional groups who, together with their national and international partners, raise awareness of depression, mental illness and difficult times through their campaign , providing members of the community with essential help, support and solutions to prevent suicide".
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| Candle to mark World Suicide Prevention Day 2012 |
Speaking in support of the motion, Cllr McKinty highlighted the extent of the problem: "This is an issue which affects many families, and today we have the opportunity to remember how much of a major public health issue suicide has become: suicide is now the biggest cause of death for males under 35" he said.
"Events have been taking place all over the world to raise awareness of this issue, including events in Belfast and one at Broadway, Larne, as we speak." he continued. "We have the opportunity now to think about those who have committed suicide, have been hospitalised attempting suicide, or those comtemplating taking their own life. We also think of those families and friends affected by the loss of a loved one, left with a void in their home and endless questions".
The motion, seconded by Cllr. James McKeown, received unanimous support from the Councillors present, all agreeing that raising awareness of suicide prevention, and removing the stigma from the topic, was of paramount importance, especially in the local area.
"I thank my fellow councillors for their support this evening, and I wish to record my thanks and encouragement to local groups, such as PIPS and PAL, who are doing fantastic work on the ground with individuals and families affected by suicide" said Cllr McKinty speaking after the meeting. "It is important that all groups work together to raise awareness, and I think that the government should further develop a strategy for suicide prevention. Whether facing financial problems, exam pressures, family issues or whatever difficulties, there are people and organisations to help overcome obstacles and help" he concluded.
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