Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Thank you for that clarity, Chair. I am not sure if it was Ms Leonard who mentioned families earlier and the support that is needed, especially during Covid. Mr. Cooney mentioned not being able to engage with families because of Covid when trying to work with people in addiction services or recovery during Covid. The restrictions and the fact one could not meet people in person were an issue. For me, families are the core of helping people on their journey. That is why I believe a national forum is so vital.

Somebody mentioned earlier that we lost 120 rehabilitation and detoxification beds during the pandemic because of the 2 m rule and social distancing. Those have not been replaced. The witness spoke about a tsunami and about people who are desperate contacting the organisation, trying to find a bed and trying to get a person in who is in the throes of addiction. We believe it is urgent that those 120 beds be returned. Then there is the situation regarding Keltoi, which Mr. Cooney referred to earlier. That was a vital service. Now it is gone, and it is a missing link that has to be replaced. With regard to beds, there are waiting lists now of up to six months. We know that is not good enough for anybody who needs supports and services.