Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 Nov 1993

Vol. 435 No. 9

Written Answers. - Combating Drug Addiction.

Jim Mitchell

Question:

121 Mr. J. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health his views on whether he or the Minister of State at his Department should be responsible for giving the necessary co-ordination and focus in the battle against drug addiction and the attending problems arising therefrom in view of the growing alarm regarding the escalating drug problem and in view of the fact that aspects of the problem come under the ambit of at least five Departments of State, namely, Justice, Health, Education, Environment and Social Welfare; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The problem of drug misuse is a complex and difficult one and there are no easy or instant solutions available. In 1991 the Government introduced a strategy based on the recommendations of the National Co-ordinating Committee on Drug Misuse. This committee consists of representatives from the Departments of Justice, Health, Education and Foreign Affairs, the Garda, Customs and Excise, the health boards, the Health Research Board and CELAD.

The strategy which it recommends, and which is being implemented by the various Departments and State agencies, is a co-ordinated strategy in the areas of supply reduction, demand reduction and increased access to treatment and rehabilitation programmes. The strategy is closely monitored by the National Coordinating Committee under the chairmanship of the Minister of State at the Department of Health who has been designated by the Government as the Minister responsible for its co-ordination and by the various responsible Departments. Further measures to improve law enforcement in relation to supply reduction, are being considered by the Minister for Justice at present.