Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
1036. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Health the reason the publication of the national drugs and alcohol strategy has been delayed; when it will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26646/17]
View answer1210. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Health the extent to which additional resources will be allocated for alcohol treatment and rehabilitation in the new national drug strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27361/17]
View answer1211. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Health the resources which will be allocated to community action on alcohol in the new national drug strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27362/17]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1036, 1210 and 1211 together.
The Government is committed to putting a new drugs strategy in place this year.
The Strategy will be based on a health-led approach to the drug problem and build on progress achieved under previous drug strategies. A Steering Committee has been established to advise me on a new strategy with a view to developing an integrated public health approach to substance misuse, which is defined as the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illegal drugs.
The Steering Committee last met on 25 May to discuss some outstanding issues. I understand that the final report will be submitted to me shortly. I hope to be in a position to bring my proposals to Government on the new Strategy thereafter. It would not be appropriate for me to comment on resources until the Strategy has been approved by Government.
