David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 199: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if research has been completed by her Department regarding the development of strategies to work with pre-adolescents at risk of substance abuse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28941/08]

Mary Wallace (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
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Work with pre-adolescents in relation to substance abuse is addressed through the Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) programme, in primary and second level schools. Through SPHE, children can develop a framework of values, attitudes, understanding and skills that will inform their decisions and actions now and in the future to enhance their health and well-being. Support for the programme at primary level is provided through the Primary Curriculum Support Programme. At post-primary level the SPHE Support Service (Post-Primary) works as a partnership between my Department, the Department of Education and Science and the HSE to support teachers and schools through ongoing in-service training and support. Similar initiatives are under way in the non-formal education setting through partnerships with the key agencies. Following a recommendation in the National Drugs Strategy 2000-08, all schools have been offered guidance and support in developing a Substance Use policy setting out, in writing, the framework within which the whole school community manages issues relating to substance use. It should reflect the unique ethos of the school and should aim to develop a shared understanding. Each policy should cover the core components; education concerning substance use, management of incidents and provision for training and staff development.