Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Restrictions on social interaction, the requirement for self-isolation and the restructuring of services, are particularly difficult for those accessing drug and alcohol services and supports.

Drug and alcohol support groups and treatment programmes play a vital role in reducing the harms of substance use and supporting rehabilitation and recovery. They help individuals to build their recovery capital and to avoid relapse into harmful patterns of substance use.

The Department of Health has published guidance for drug and alcohol support groups and treatment programmes and other addiction treatment services, including at Level 5. The guidance is available at www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/17d32f-drugs-and-alcohol-policy.

The guidance applies to drug and alcohol support groups for people and families who live with drug and alcohol addiction (including gambling addiction), e.g. self-help/fellowship groups, peer support, family/parent support.

It is important that individuals should adhere to the public health advice and restrictions at Level 5, including staying at home and restricting movements to within 5km of home, except for their attendance at support groups and treatment programmes and other specified exceptions.

The main points contained in the updated Guidelines relating to attending/facilitating support groups and programmes include:

- It is recommended to hold meetings and deliver programmes online or outdoors where this is possible, without diluting the benefits for participants.

- Where it is decided to host a face-to-face group/programme meeting, organisers are advised to undertake a risk assessment to ensure the health, welfare and safety of participants.

- Facilities used to host support groups and treatment programmes should be for exclusive use, where possible, and not shared with other users.

- The recommended maximum number of attendees at levels 3, 4 and 5 is 15 people (including leaders), with 2 metres social distancing. Face coverings should be used.

- Support groups and programmes should last a maximum of 105 minutes.

- Individuals at higher risk from Covid-19, or in close contact with such individuals,should only attend meetings that are conducted online.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a major impact in Ireland and globally. It is imperative that drug and alcohol support groups adhere strictly to public health advice at Level 5. By following the public health advice, we can reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our communities and support the provision of vital non-COVID healthcare services.