Suicide in Ireland: Statistical, social and clinical considerations

Under-reporting has been a frequent criticism of mortality statistics, especially in data from Ireland. Canter et al. (1997) report a new study, claiming that the data in Ireland are unreliable, based on a sudden increase in suicide. However, this paper examined this belief further, showing that the data may well be reliable, and provides explanations for the regional variation in certification and the rise of suicide in Irish males. Because of the rise in suicide, an outline for reducing suicide in Ireland is reported, highlighting a national response, a National Task Force, and an independent research foundation, Suicide Research Foundation.