Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The national drugs strategy was launched by the Minister of State, Deputy Curran, on 10 September last. Its overall objective, which was developed following an extensive consultation process, is to continue to tackle the harm caused to individuals and society by the misuse of drugs through a concerted focus on the five pillars of supply reduction, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and research. The strategy's budget of €275 million is spent directly on drugs services and programmes across a range of Departments and State agencies. There have been 100 drug-specific projects in 24 local and regional drugs taskforce areas covering the country. The new Office of the Minister for Drugs, in operation since 1 September, streamlines service administration and further improves co-ordination across the statutory, community and voluntary pillars.

Significant moneys, €275 million, have been allocated in tackling this serious problem for many communities. A strategy is in place after extensive consultation with all groups and stakeholders involved. The policy approach is extensive, updated and relevant to the needs identified by the stakeholders.

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