Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 178: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his Department will be in a position to provide some financial support for the production of a community-based drugs awareness film. [2872/08]

Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Responsibility for the National Drugs Awareness Campaign lies with the Health Promotion Unit of the Health Services Executive. In consultation with various parties, that Unit is currently rolling out a new awareness campaign. This campaign may combine local elements within the broader message.

The primary aim of the awareness campaign will be to communicate the dangers of cocaine use, with a particular focus on so called "recreational cocaine users" in the 15-34 age group. It will utilise appropriate media, such as social network websites, billboard and bus advertising as well as radio advertising to target this age group.

No specific funding is available from my Department to support the production of a community-based drugs awareness film and, broadly speaking I would favour a coherent approach involving an overall message through the Health Promotion Unit. Having said that, it is open to community groups to approach the relevant Local or Regional Drugs Task Force for their area in regard to any proposals they might have. Alternatively, an application could be made under the "small grant scheme" of the Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund which has a €5,000 maximum level of grant assistance. Applications under that Fund, which is restricted to particular areas, would be made to the Local Development Group. Contact details for any of these agencies are available from my Department.