Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 June 2017
65. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if the outstanding issues which are delaying the signing off of the new national drug strategy are being addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27845/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra69. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Health if the new national drugs strategy will be a national substance misuse strategy including drugs and alcohol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27736/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra138. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Health when the new national drugs strategy will be published; if it will be debated in Dáil Éireann before being adapted as Government policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27735/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 65, 69 and 138 together.
The Government is committed to putting a new drugs strategy in place this year.
The Strategy will be based on a health-led approach to the drug problem and build on progress achieved under previous drug strategies. A Steering Committee has been established to advise me on a new strategy with a view to developing an integrated public health approach to substance misuse, which is defined as the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illegal drugs.
The Steering Committee last met on 25 May to discuss some outstanding issues. I understand that the final report will be submitted to me shortly. I hope to be in a position to bring my proposals to Government on the new Strategy thereafter.
