I take it the Deputy is referring to persons who have drug addiction problems. Persons who have such difficulties, whether due to misuse of prescribed medicines or the use of illicit drugs, can access treatment through their GP or their local drug addiction service. In accordance with "A Vision for Change", the national mental health policy, the mental health services are responsible for providing services to persons who have both substance abuse and mental health problems. Mental health services are available on referral from a GP or through emergency departments.
Medicines which have a high potential for misuse are controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Acts. A person who has a controlled drug in his possession for the purpose of sale or supply is guilty of an offence. My Department is finalising major amendments to the misuse of drugs regulations. The proposals include stricter prescribing and dispensing controls on certain prescription drugs which are being traded illicitly, including benzodiazepines and Z-drugs, as well as creating the offence of unauthorised possession of such drugs. Due to the complexity of the draft regulations, it has been necessary to have two rounds of consultations with stakeholders and interested parties. Arising from the latest consultation process, the draft regulations are being reviewed. When this review is completed, the Government's approval will be sought to notify the draft regulations to the European Commission and member states under the technical standards directive.
It is intended that the draft regulations will be so notified before the end of the first quarter of 2014. The EU notification period may take up to three months to complete. Following its completion, the Government's approval will be sought to the relevant statutory instruments. The Deputy referred to the need for additional treatment services for persons who may be affected by the proposed regulations. I understand her point and it is something I will attend to and keep under review.
