The prevention of substance misuse is dealt with by the health promotion unit of my Department in both a topics and settings approach consistent with international best practice. In addition topics such as alcohol, tobacco and drugs use are often dealt with separately in media campaigns.
A number of Government Departments are involved in the development of both campaigns and polices in respect of substance misuse. Most notably my Department along with the Department of Education and Science have worked together on the social personal and health education, SPHE, programme which aims to enhance the self-esteem and decision making skills of young people and will be part of the school curriculum from September 2003. It is important to note also that evaluations to date both in Ireland and internationally have shown that the SPHE approach is effective.
In addition, both the national drugs strategy team and the strategic task force on alcohol draw on the expertise of many Departments in examining the issue of alcohol and drug use. This multi-sectoral approach ensures a cohesive and co-ordinated response to these issues.
