Thomas Gould
Question:1184. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Health the current restrictions on indoor addiction recovery support groups; and the timeline for the lifting of same. [42033/21]
View answerThursday, 9 September 2021
Questions (1184)
Written answers
The majority of indoor activities are still restricted given the current high level of Covid-19 infection. However, the Dept of Health has supported the continued operation of drug and alcohol support groups and treatment programmes given their importance for the health and wellbeing of participants. It is committed to continue to provide bespoke guidance for this important health sector.
The Department has advised that the maximum number of participants in drug and alcohol support groups and treatment programmes can be increased from 15 to 20, to include organisers. This higher limit is subject to 2 metre social distancing in the venue.
A further increase in the maximum number of participants will be considered on foot of the Government roadmap to further re-open social and economic activities, which was recently published.
The following guidance should be taken into account in increasing the number of participants in support groups and programmes:
- All participants should be encouraged to available of the Covid-19 vaccination. Vaccination will not alone protect them from the impact of the disease, but will protect other participants in support groups and programme. Vaccination is an important contribution to social solidarity.
- The Delta variant of Covid-19 is highly infectious and poses a major risk to the population, in particular those who are not vaccinated. Public health advice remains that the non-vaccinated should avoid congregated indoor settings. Other meeting formats - outdoors and online - should continue to be provided.
- People living with drug and alcohol addictions may experience poor physical health and weakened immune systems, making them especially vulnerable to Covid-19. Participants who are vaccinated may continue to face these heightened risks due to weakened immune systems.
- Masks remain an important protective measure for everyone, including those that are fully vaccinated. Good ventilation of indoor venues is also imperative.
I appreciate the positive engagement by drug and alcohol support groups with the Department on this matter and their patience as we sought clarification on what was possible given the continuing public health restrictions.
My officials will continue to engage with these group to further increase attendance at indoor meetings, in line with the Government roadmap.