asked the Minister for Health the plans he has for the provision of new advisory and treatment centres for those suffering from drug addiction, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Drug Addiction Centres.
29.
The Task Force on Drug Abuse recommended that a new purpose built walk-in out-patient facility should be provided in the inner-city area of Dublin. A planning brief for this unit has been agreed and negotiations are in progress concerning the purchase of a suitable premises for this new facility.
Additional funds have been made available to the Coolemine Therapeutic Community to help it to meet the increasing demands being made upon its services. A new induction centre has been provided by Coolemine in Dún Laoghaire. In addition the induction centre in Lord Edward Street has been reconstructed and decorated and this facility will be opened next month.
In regard to advisory services there are now drug counsellors in five community care areas in Dublin. An additional counsellor will be placed in the south inner-city area shortly. The Eastern Health Board will continue to monitor the need for new counselling services.