A Tynwald committee investigation into the island’s suicide rate is inviting written submissions.

Between January 2008 and October 2018, a period of less than 11 years, there were 100 suicide-related deaths.

In 88 of these cases the Coroner of Inquests definitively established suicide to be the cause of death.

The social affairs policy review committee, in its report on mental health laid before this month’s Tynwald, committed to undertake an inquiry into suicide rates.

It acknowledged the complexity of the issue and said there are myriad social, health, and economic factors that may be present in any one case.

The committee will look at the adequacy of preventative measures, the response of public services, the role of the Coroner of Inquests and the support available for those affected by suicide.

It is inviting written submissions from anyone who wishes to comment on these matters.

In its 2010-2015 strategy, the Department of Health made reducing suicide rates, particularly for young males, a priority target.

And its ’Strategic Plan for Mental Health and Well-being’ for 2015-2020 undertakes to cut the levels of suicide by developing a framework for prevention.

Submissions should be sent by January 8 next year, preferably by email to [email protected] or to the Committee Secretariat, Legislative Buildings, Douglas, IM1 3PW.