Government investment in suicide prevention must be sustained once the dormant account funding is finished, it was warned today.
Almost €1 million which had been left lying in dormant bank accounts has been allocated to groups working to tackle Ireland's high suicide rates.
The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) said there is a need for much high funding and levels must not be allowed slip back once the new injection of money is exhausted.
Colm Hamrogue, USI president, said: "Money from dormant bank accounts is being put to excellent use in saving lives. This is something USI obviously welcomes.
"But there is a need for much higher Government investment in suicide prevention on a sustained annual basis.
"Dormant bank accounts plug the funding gap this year — but next year must see no return to the traditional under-funding of prevention projects and resources."
The money, which comes from bank and post office accounts not used for at least 15 years, is being split among 20 community-based suicide prevent initiatives, including those targeting men under 35 years.
Around 431 lives were lost to suicide in the state last year.
Kelly Mackey, the union's welfare officer, said: "Increased Government investment in suicide prevention is sorely overdue.
"USI would point out that suicide claimed 431 lives last year — yet just €1.2 million is dedicated to suicide prevention."
Ms Mackey said reducing suicide levels was a major concern.
"The proposed community-based initiatives will hopefully lead to early intervention measures and timely, appropriate treatment for those at risk as well as vital support services for those who are bereaved," she said.