Frustrated suicide support groups set up 24-hour helpline

VOLUNTARY suicide support groups frustrated at the Government’s slow response to Ireland’s suicide crisis have joined forces to launch their own national 24-hour helpline.

The groups from Belfast, Dublin, Cork and Limerick also criticised a decision to pay former US President Bill Clinton a rumoured €100,000 to address a RehabCare gala event later this month to raise money for a proposed national suicide prevention programme.

“Any initiative that contributes to the prevention of suicide is very welcome,” said Pat Buckley, spokesman for the suicide support groups.