Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 November 2020
220. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health if there has been an increase in the request for substance abuse support services since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38986/20]
View answer221. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health if substance abuse support services have received additional funding since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38987/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 220 and 221 together.
The Covid-19 pandemic has created a time of uncertainty and anxiety for everyone and particularly for those who are affected by drug and alcohol addiction. The restructuring of services, social distancing measures and self-isolation can be particularly difficult for those who are trying to remain drug or alcohol free and for those who are in recovery.
The Government plan for living with Covid-19 details how non-Covid health and social care services will be resumed, especially during the challenging winter months. This includes planning for the safe resumption of drug and alcohol services, including community-based services, residential programmes and recovery support groups.
The Department has set up a working group with drug and alcohol service providers to develop a 'Framework for the Restoration of Drug and Alcohol Services', in a planned and appropriate manner in line with public health advice. The working group has identified issues on which guidance and supports are required. I expect to be in receipt of the finished Framework document in the coming weeks.
I recently met with representatives of drug and alcohol task forces to discuss continued support for their work in identifying and responding to local needs. On 13th November, I announced the provision of €480,000 in once-off funding to support the restoration of drug and alcohol services during Covid-19. This €480,000 is being provided to the network of 24 Drug and Alcohol Task Forces for distribution to community and voluntary drug and alcohol services in their areas. Each task force will receive up to €20,000 in once-off funding to meet Covid-19 related costs.
As this is also a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.
