Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour)
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Question 167: To ask the Minister for Health and Children his plans to upgrade and or establish treatment facilities in the drug and alcohol rehabilitation services; if he favours community-based treatment units or larger facilities based in urban centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10904/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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There have been significant changes in the patterns of drug misuse, involving a greater range of drugs, increased use of cocaine, poly-substance use (including alcohol) and a greater geographical spread of problem drug use.

A priority of the National Drugs Strategy (interim) 2009-2016 is to develop an integrated national treatment and rehabilitation service for all substance users. The Strategy targets a 25% increase in residential rehabilitation places by 2012 based on 2008 figures. The HSE's Service Plan for 2011 identifies the need to develop treatment services in residential and community based settings. Additional funding of almost €2.5m has been provided to the four regions of the HSE for the development of additional frontline addiction services including additional psychology services, counselling and outreach services. The HSE is also working to provide additional detox beds.

Each year over the past six years the HSE has increased its provision of methadone, both in clinics and in the community. The number of patients attending for treatment has increased by 25% from 9,917 in 2004 to 12,553 in 2010. Each year, over the past five years, 800 new clients have been provided with methadone, an increase of approximately 7.5% per annum with around 450 per annum successfully completing their treatment episode in any one year.

Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)
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Question 168: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if he will ensure that a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 is facilitated; and if he will make an exception in this case due to the severe medical problems. [10905/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.