Willie Penrose
Question:70 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation when the review of the operation of the national drugs strategy will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6621/01]
Written Answers. - National Drugs Strategy.
Last summer I initiated a comprehensive review of the national drugs strategy to ensure the policies and strategies, which are being pursued, remain relevant to the situation, as it exists on the ground. The objective of the review is to identify any gaps or deficiencies in the current strategy, develop revised strategies and, if necessary, new structures through which to deliver them. It is being overseen by a steering committee known as the review group, which consists of representatives from relevant Departments, State agencies and the community and voluntary sector.
Some 190 submissions were received from individuals and organisations in response to the public call for submissions. Because of the high level of public interest, I decided to also carry out a thorough and lengthy nation-wide consultation process over the summer months and into autumn. Eight regional consultative fora were held around the country at which more than 600 people took part. I subsequently invited more than 30 agencies and organisations to make detailed presentations to further assist in identification of gaps or deficiencies in the current strategy.
Since then, and with the assistance of external consultants, drafting of the report of the review has been progressing under the direction of the review group. It is hoped to have the report completed and ready for submission to Government before the end of the month.