Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

I am delighted to announce further investment in budget 2026 for the national drugs strategy and health and well-being. The total allocation for drugs and inclusion health has increased to €289 million. This is an increase of €11 million in non-pay related measures. I am determined that people throughout the country will access timely quality care. I am committed to the continued expansion of drugs services across all regions, with a particular focus on rural areas throughout the country and not just in our main cities. I have paid particular attention to the report of the Citizens' Assembly on Drug Use and to the evaluation of the national drugs strategy in framing the measures in budget 2026. I want to enhance capacity in drugs services that will support the development of our next national drugs strategy, which is currently being drafted and which I hope to publish in early 2026.

With the investment provided by budget 2026, I want to progress improvements in drug and social inclusion health services, including enhanced drug services for those who are underserved, such as young people, an alternative opioid substitute treatments that will improve care for those in rural areas, a workforce development plan for the valued staff who provide addiction services throughout the country in our community services and through a local drug and alcohol task forces, early intervention for children's health and an enhancement in healthcare for those who are homeless and refugees. I acknowledge measures proposed by my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Butler. These include the expansion of dual diagnosis services for people with both mental health issues and addiction issues. There is also additional funding for suicide reduction initiatives for the Traveller community.

Under my brief of health and well-being, the money invested in public health initiatives next year will help to lay the foundations for a healthier future for everyone. We must focus on promoting healthier choices and protecting children. I am particularly delighted to have secured €200,000 to address vaping rates among young people. The increase in vaping and nicotine use by children and young people is a particular concern of mine. I will work with the HSE on this campaign to ensure that factual information is delivered to primary school aged children and their parents. This is alongside the ongoing work of the Government to introduce legislation on banning disposal vapes and restricting colours and flavours. The publication of this legislation is a priority for this Government.

Among other public health measures, I secured additional funding for sexual healthcare and prevention. There are measures to address obesity and increase breast feeding supports. Alongside our continued support for men's sheds, budget 2026 will provide funding to support the national roll-out of women's sheds. This has been a priority of mine, and I look forward to working with the Department of rural and community development on this.

The Government is committed to tackling child poverty.

In line with this, I am supporting the hot meals programme by increasing the number of environmental health officers to carry out robust inspections. We want to create a health service that leaves no one behind. People are living longer and it is vital that we invest in public health so people can be supported to live healthier lives and make healthier choices.

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