A remembrance service for people who died by suicide will have to move to a bigger venue for the second time because of the demand for bookings from bereaved families.
More than 600 people attended the fifth Christmas Celebration of Light service organised by support group Console in the college chapel of St Patrick's College, Maynooth, yesterday.
It was previously held in All Hallows College, Dublin, but was moved because of the large number who wished to attend.
A Console spokesman said that many people had to be turned away again this year because of the huge public interest.
Similar events were held in Galway and Limerick yesterday.
The spokesman said the event was about showing bereaved families they were not alone and that support was available in the run-up to Christmas, one of the most difficult times of the year for bereaved people.
Last year, 11,200 people were treated in A&E units for injuries caused by deliberate acts of self-harm or attempted suicide. About 500 people die from suicide every year.
Hosting the Maynooth service, Fr Aidan Troy said the event was about solidarity and remembering people's loved ones with hope, rather than dwelling on the dark days.
Fr Troy said that while families may condemn the actions of a member who took their own life, they still had to respect the person.
Candles were lit by bereaved families and a minute's silence was held to remember people who died by suicide.
Singers Mary and Frances Black, and Eleanor Shanley, and oboist David Agnew were among the performers who provided music at the service.
The Console helpline for people bereaved by suicide is 1800 201 890 or see www.console.ie
