A series of candlelight vigils will take place nationwide next week to remember those who have lost their lives through suicide.
The vigils will be held in Dublin, Donegal, Galway and Wexford to mark World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th, which aims to highlight suicide prevention internationally.
Since 2004, Irish charity organisation Turn the Tide of Suicide (3Ts) has hosted an annual vigil in Dublin, but by extending the event across the country it hopes to send out a strong suicide prevention message, whilst supporting those affected by suicide.
According to Joe MacAvin, spokesman for 3Ts, "Since the first candlelight vigil in 2004, suicide and its prevention have been given an increasing amount of attention.
Nevertheless, the problem sadly appears to be escalating. With latest research citing approximately 600 deaths a year attributed to suicide, it is the leading cause of death in young people in this country."
Candlelight vigils in Dublin, Donegal and Galway will take place on Monday with commemorations in Wexford the following Wednesday.
Each event, which is open to the public, will be marked with a minute's silence to remember victims of suicide.
A number of well-known commentators and psychiatric health experts will attend to speak on suicide prevention.
More information is available at www.3ts.ieor alternatively call 01-2139905.