Attitudes towards suicide were assessed among Irish coroners in order to determine their understanding of suicide & its prevention. An internationally validated questionniare was sent to all coroners in the Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland. 60 completed questionnaires (response rate 62%) were analysed. The responses reflected openness towards communication about suicide & suicide prevention initiatives. Approximately, 1 in 5 favoured the attitudes that suicide is a right or that it may be a justifiable resolution. Only 23% agreed that people who die by suicide are usually mentally ill. (16 refs.)