Vol. 496 No. 3
267 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will ensure that the Eastern Health Board consults with a local community before a final decision is taken to locate a drugs treatment centre (details supplied). [22513/98]
268 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will direct the Eastern Health Board to meet representatives of a community (details supplied) before a final decision is taken on the location of a drugs treatment centre, particularly in view of the concerns expressed locally. [22514/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 267 and 268 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, the development of drug treatment facilities in the Dublin area is a matter for the Eastern Health Board which has statutory responsibility for the provision of such facilities. It would not be appropriate for me to issue directions to the board in relation to consultation with local communities about the location of treatment centres.
In any event, I understand from the board that, as a matter of policy, it engages in consultation with community representatives. I further understand that, in the case of the location referred to by the Deputy, the board met with local public representatives and a large group of representatives of local traders and residents on 19 October 1998. Since that date the board has been in constant communications with resident associations in the area and has agreed to make itself available at all times for meetings. In addition the board has agreed to keep local resident associations appraised of all developments relating to its proposals for the development of services at the location in question.
I am satisfied that the board is behaving in a reasonable manner in its dealings with representatives of the local community. I would appeal to public representatives as well as the local community to support the board in its efforts to provide treatment for drug misusers who reside in the area.
