More Irish people are drowning by suicide than by accident, according to latest statistics which show a slight drop in water fatalities last year.
However, the high number of non-accidental drownings has prompted Irish Water Safety (IWS) to embark on a new research project into the issue with scientists from University College Dublin.
The Galway-based national marine safety awareness organisation will be working with UCD's department of psychiatry and mental health research on the issue on an epidemiological study of all causes of drowning in Irish coastal and inland waters.
A total of 149 people died by drowning here last year, compared to 153 in 2003.
The IWS said this figure may change slightly as it is subject to the conclusion of inquests and possible discovery of people who have been reported missing.
The Irish figures are in contrast with New Zealand, which has a similar population to Ireland. In a recent year three people drowned in New Zealand.
Demographics, access to waterways and certain features specific to particular "high-risk" sites will be examined as part of the new study, and successful preventative strategies adopted by other countries, including New Zealand, will be analysed.
Lieut Cdr John Leech, the IWS chief executive, reminded the public to be vigilant over the Bank Holiday weekend to the hazards of water.
He said a growing public awareness of the importance of water safety may explain the slight decrease in drownings last year,
He said the work of the Irish Coast Guard and associated rescue services, along with the Garda, had also contributed.
So also had last year's introduction of the Primary Aquatic Water Safety Programme and an increase in risk assessments by local authorities.
The IWS has safety information on its website www.iws.ie
