Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 September 2019
364. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Health his plans to launch a targeted awareness campaign regarding the dangers of drug use aimed at high-risk groups such as festival goers and students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38784/19]
View answerThe National Drugs Strategy, 'Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery', focuses on a coordinated, comprehensive effort involving all sectors to create safer, healthier communities by supporting people to avoid, reduce and recover from drug related harm. This public health approach to drug use aims to prevent and address health problems that may arise from drug use.
The report of the Working Group to Consider Alternative Approaches to the Possession of Drugs for Personal Use notes that it is important that all sectors work together to inform the public about the harms associated with cannabis and all other illicit drug use. It therefore recommends a campaign to increase awareness of the treatments available and of the harms associated with drug use. It is anticipated that the HSE will commence planning and development phases of this campaign in 2020.
