The way in which data on suicide is collected in this country needs to be radically reviewed, the suicide prevention charity, Console, has insisted.

It was responding to new figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), which revealed that 554 people died by suicide in 2011. This is the highest figure seen in recent years and marks a 12% increase on 2010's figure.

However, according to the charity, the finalised figures for 2011 ‘increased dramatically on the provisional statistics we have had for the last year, rising from 525 to 554'.

"We need significant changes and investment in research as the lack of accurate information is impeding our ability to understand and respond to the awful tragedy of suicide," commented Console's director of services, Ciaran Austin.

He insisted that if information was more accurate, problems could be identified and responded to more quickly.

The charity also noted that the CSO statistics do not provide a breakdown of suicide figures relating to age groups or counties.

"We can't adequately compare the numbers dying by suicide until we can look at the rate of suicide in Ireland today and look at the rate of suicide by population in different countries and different counties, so hopefully that information will be forthcoming soon," Mr Austin said.

Console is a nationwide suicide prevention and bereavement charity, offering counselling services and a 24-hour helpline to people in crisis and those bereaved by suicide.

The helpline Is free of charge - 1800 201 890 - or more information can be found at www.console.ie