Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 2 Oct 1996

Vol. 469 No. 3

Written Answers. - Drugs Awareness Programme.

Tony Gregory

Question:

110 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education the consultations, if any, carried out by her Department with community groups in drawing up the drugs awareness programme for primary schools; and if the Inner City Organisations Network has been consulted in this regard. [17165/96]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

A steering committee for the development of the substance abuse prevention education programme at primary school level has been established. Representatives from the partners in education and relevant agencies, including one from an active community group are included on this committee.

Liaison has been initiated by my Department with certain local community groups about the development of the programme and will be ongoing. The liaison has been set up to ensure that these groups will be consulted about the development. In particular, contact has been made with the Inner City Organisation Network and it is intended that there will be continuing consultation with the network so that account may be taken of their views and possible contribution.