Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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428. To ask the Minister for Health the status of the implementation of the drug strategy report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7238/18]

Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Government's drug strategy, Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery – a health-led response to drug and alcohol use in Ireland 2017-2025 was launched by An Taoiseach on 17 July 2017. The strategy provides an integrated public health approach to drug and alcohol use, focussed on promoting healthier lifestyles within society. The strategy contains a 50 point Action Plan for the period 2017 to 2020.

A National Oversight Committee (NOC), which I Chair, gives leadership and direction to support the implementation of the strategy. A Standing Sub-Committee of the NOC drives the implementation of the strategy and promotes coordination between national, local and regional levels.

I firmly believe in a health-led and person-centred approach to our drug and alcohol problem. I am committed to working with all stakeholders, including individuals, families and local communities affected by drugs, to implement the strategy.