Tony Gregory
Question:103 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health and Children if the residential drug treatment project (details supplied) in County Laois is being considered for funding by his Department or by the health boards. [7554/98]
Written Answers. - Drug Treatment Services.
The provision of drug treatment services in the Midland Health Board is a matter for the Midland Health Board in the first instance. The health board is aware of the services provided by Saol Nua and has visited its facilities.
The vast majority of drug problems in the board are treated in a community setting by the board's community drug treatment services. In a small number of cases where people need a period of in-patient treatment for drug problems there are usually other serious behavioural disturbances which also need to be addressed. It is necessary, therefore, in each case, to assess the individual needs of the person and to decide then which facility, or combination of facilities, can meet those needs. The Midland Health Board will have regard to the services provided by Saol Nua in considering the needs of people who need in-patient treatment for drug misuse problems.