Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 July 2016
430. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Health the status of moves towards the provision of an integrated treatment service for all substance users as outlined in the national drug strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19073/16]
View answer433. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Health the status of the national drug rehabilitation implementation committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19076/16]
View answer439. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Health the status of the development of a clinical and organisational governance framework for all treatment and rehabilitation services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19082/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 430, 433 and 439 together.
Government policy in relation to drugs underlines the importance of providing opportunities for people to move on from illicit drug use to a drug-free life, where that is achievable. In line with the National Drugs Strategy, the Health Service Executive has reoriented the addiction services in recent years so that they are capable of dealing with all substances. The HSE is continuing to develop the spread and range of addiction services to achieve better coverage across the country, especially in areas most affected by the drug problem. Treatment is provided through a network of statutory and non-statutory agencies, using a four tier model of service delivery. The four tier model is based on the principle that drug treatment is best provided at the lowest level of complexity, matching the patient’s needs and as close to the patient’s home as possible.
The National Drugs Rehabilitation Implementation Committee (NDRIC) is chaired by the HSE and meets on a monthly basis. The primary objective of NDRIC is to oversee and monitor the implementation of the recommendations of the Report of the Working Group on Drugs Rehabilitation (2007). The Committee has developed a National Drugs Rehabilitation Framework which is crucial to achieving a more integrated treatment and rehabilitation service. The aim of the framework is to provide a 'continuum of care' for the recovering drug user through promoting a more integrated and person-centred approach to rehabilitation based on shared care planning. I am advised that the implementation of the National Drugs Rehabilitation Framework is a priority for the HSE and is currently being rolled out on a national basis.
I understand that the HSE is continuing to progress the development of a clinical and organisational governance framework, which provides for a governance structure setting out clear lines of authority, accountability and responsibility at all levels. The HSE National Addiction Governance Group are in the process of finalising a report on the matter, which will contribute to the achievement of this objective.
