Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Dec 2003

Vol. 576 No. 5

Written Answers. - Drug Treatment Services.

Tony Gregory

Question:

354 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has considered alternative treatment initiatives for acute heroin users other than methadone treatment; if various European trials involving medically prescribed, and supervised use, of heroin for long-term acutely addicted persons, are being considered by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28696/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

The Eastern Regional Health Authority has responded to the Deputy's question. It outlined the various alternatives to methadone being used at present.

The review group on the national drugs strategy considered heroin prescribing. It concluded that the introduction of other forms of treatment was not warranted. My Department will continue to keep under review the results of research on treatment. The International Narcotics Control Board is responsible for overseeing and monitoring international policy on international drug controls and it is opposed to such forms of treatment.