Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)

The decision to cease residential services was taken after widespread consultation with stakeholders through the forum of the east Galway future shape group. This decision represents an improvement in the addiction services of the Western Health Board as there are now 11 addiction counsellors in the east Galway service where heretofore there were three. The expanded service provided is locally based to the people in the following towns and regions: Ballinasloe-Mountbellew, Gort-Portumna, Tuam-Headford and Loughrea-Athenry.

People who present to locally-based services with addictions are assessed and a variety of treatment options offered. Where it is clinically determined that a person requires residential treatment for his or her alcohol problems, suitable arrangements will be made and funded by the Western Health Board.

I am aware of the emotion within the community that the closure of the unit has generated. I also understand that there has been some misinformation. I am assured that the Western Health Board—