Government response to suicide criticised as too slow

The Government's response to suicide among young people has been criticised as too slow.

The National Anti-bullying Coalition said that while it is mindful that the Education Minister is preparing to publish a report on an Action Plan for Bullying In Schools - it is not being done in enough time to save lives.

It comes after the death by suicide of 15-year-old Shannon Gallagher - whose younger sister Erin took her own life 6 weeks ago.

13-year-old Erin's case received national attention, amid allegations that she had been bullied online before her death.

Education Minister Ruairi Quinn said the priority now is to provide support and assistance to the students and staff at Finn Valley College in Stranorlar, where Shannon was a student.