Vol. 555 No. 2
316 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on whether it is prudent to permit in principle the construction of a drug treatment clinic at Loman's Road in Lucan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18215/02]
318 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children if the South Western Area Health Board will be provided with funding to purchase land and property for a drug treatment facility in Clondalkin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18217/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 316 and 318 together.
The provision of drug treatment services is the statutory responsibility of the health boards, in this case the South Western Area Health Board. I have been advised by the South Western Area Health Board that it intends to provide addiction services for people from the Lucan and Clondalkin area from this site. It is envisaged that these services will include GP services, counselling, nursing, psychiatry and psychology services, pharmacy and family therapy services. The board has advised that there is a great need for these services in this area and that consequently the board has a responsibility to provide them. I understand that the site in question is owned by the Eastern Regional Health Authority and that therefore the question of providing funding for its purchase does not arise.
I understand that the board wishes to work with all concerned to develop the centre so that it can meet the needs of the people in the area. I understand that the board has already held informal meetings with some residents in the area in relation to the proposed centre. I have also been advised that the board is anxious to establish a monitoring committee comprising local residents, interested groups and the Garda. It is envisaged that this committee will ensure that the centre operates within appropriate guidelines. Moreover it will offer local residents and others an opportunity to raise any concerns which they may have in respect of the centre and to have these concerns addressed.
