Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022
1837. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Health if it is envisaged that a new action plan will be completed on the National Drugs Strategy with trackable deliverables; and if so, the timeline for the delivery of same. [40695/22]
View answerThe mid-term review of the national drugs strategy, Reducing Harm Supporting Recovery, identified six strategic priorities for the remaining period 2022-2025. These priorities will strengthen the health-led approach, reflect commitments in the Programme for Government and align with the EU drugs strategy and action plan 2021-2025. Activities in relation to these priorities were funded in Budget 2022.
Strategic implementation groups have been established to support the implementation of the priorities and to agree additional actions, under the auspices of the national oversight committee. These new structures reflect the partnership approach and give a stronger voice to civil society by broadening and deepening the involvement of community and voluntary groups in the implementation of the strategy. Membership of the Groups is comprised of representatives from Government departments and agencies, drug and alcohol taskforces and civil society.
Independent leadership has been provided to ensure the accountability of all stakeholders and to bring impartiality, insight, and experience in addressing the challenges of drug and alcohol use. The independent chairs of the strategic implementation groups report to the national oversight committee.
The strategic implementation groups are responsible for developing their respective action plans. The groups are action-oriented and comprise stakeholders who are directly involved in the delivery of the relevant priority. Chairs will report to the national oversight committee on the progress made in developing and progressing their actions within their individual groups. The next meeting of the national oversight committee is scheduled for September.
I am committed to a partnership approach in implementing the strategic priorities for the national drugs strategy.
