Irish President's Belfast Trip To Highlight Suicide

The tragedy of suicide is to be in focus today when a high profile visitor arrives in north Belfast.

The Public Initiative for the Prevention of Suicide & Self-harm, (PIP'S) is to welcome the President of Ireland Mary McAleese and her husband Martin to officially open the new PIP'S House headquarters in Belfast's Duncairn Gardens.

Along with Dawn Purvis, the PUP MLA, Mrs McAleese will plant a special 'Tree of Life' in memory of loved ones who have died by their own hand.

President McAleese and Dawn Purvis will then both speak about the aims of the new house and the issue of suicide - which can affect anyone on the island of Ireland.

According to Philip McTaggart from the organsation, PIP'S are keen to show that this is an issue which affects all people from all communities.

He said this is the first such centre of excellence in Northern Ireland: "It will help those who have been affected by suicide and self-harm.

"Our aim is to increase community awareness around the issues of suicide and self harm, with a view to reducing the stigma and barriers attached to mental health," he said, explaining that, by doing so, they hope to encourage desperate people to seek help.

He said that PIPS has come a long way in just six years: "It's only with the commitment of the community, families and friends that we have this centre of excellence.

"Families continue to lead the way and to ensure that no one should have to suffer in silence again," he insisted, noting that funding for the new premises has come from the business and local community.

Monday afternoon will see the Irish President enjoy performances from choirs from St. Gemma's High School and Ulidia Integrated College.

Under 13 All Ireland & International Irish Dancing Champion and Ulster Scots dancers will also perform for the VIP during her trip, which takes place at 2pm on the 18 May at the new headquarters building.

(BMcC/JM)