David Stanton
Ceist:135 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the drug treatment services provided by the Southern Health Board for those over 16 and under 18 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13532/98]
Written Answers. - Drug Treatment Services.
The provision of drug treatment services in the Southern Health Board area is a matter for the Southern Health Board in the first instance.
The Southern Health Board's policy on the treatment of alcohol and substance misuse is an outpatient drug-free approach, which services are based on the Minnesota model and therapeutic community model. These services support the wide range of services provided by mental health services.
The counselling service for substance misuse among 16 to 18 year olds is currently provided at Arbour House adolescent unit in Cork. This is an outpatient service providing assessment and treatment in a day programme, or referral to other appropriate services where necessary. New addiction services are currently being developed in west Cork and Kerry with additional counsellors being appointed at Arbour House and Cork city north. These locations will provide a greater accessibility to assessment and treatment. The recruitment process is under way for these new posts.
The service will continue to be reviewed regularly and consideration will be given to any new service needs identified.