John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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490. To ask the Minister for Health the details of the proposed national awareness campaign on drug-related violence and intimidation to be carried out in 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25546/19]

Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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The national drugs strategy, Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery, contains a strategic action to strengthen the effectiveness of the drug-related intimidation reporting programme.

The National Drug-Related Intimidation Reporting Programme which was developed by the National Family Support Network and An Garda Síochána, provides a framework to allow reporting of an incident of intimidation to a nominated inspector.

An Garda Síochána and the National Family Support Network have concluded separate evaluations of the drug-related intimidation reporting programme and jointly agreed a number of actions to strengthen the programme, including external promotion of the programme through the media, external contacts and various forums.

On 6th March 2019, I announced additional funding of €1 million for the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy; "Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery". This funding, which will be provided on a recurring, multi-annual basis, will address strategic actions in the Strategy.

Following a consultation process, I approved a three-strand funding model for this additional funding. Strand 3 provides for funding of a national awareness campaign on the drug-related violence and intimidation reporting programme. The funding will be up to €140,000 over three years.

A workshop will be arranged for stakeholders on the application process for a national awareness campaign on drug related violence and intimidation under strand 3 funding.

I feel strongly that families and communities affected by drug use need to have appropriate, accessible and timely services available to help them cope with the problems they are facing. It is important that we get the message out there that help is available and that families and communities know where to go for help.