Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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1583. To ask the Minister for Health his views on the press release (details supplied) in respect of the Family Addiction Support Network which has issued a warning that it may have to close its doors in July 2021 due to critical underfunding in the service; his plans to make sure this does not take place in order to safeguard the essential support services it provides in the north-east region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34365/21]

Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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The National Drug Strategy, Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery, recognises the role of families affected by drug use in contributing to the planning, design and delivery of effective addiction services.

In Budget 2021, I secured €280,000 in additional funding to support family services. This funding will be used to develop and broaden the range of peer-led, mutual aid and family support programmes in accordance with best practice, in line with goal 4 of the National Drugs Strategy. The development of family support services is listed as a drug and alcohol priority in the HSE National Service Plan for 2021. It is intended that the HSE will develop coordinated family support programmes in the following four areas this year:

- Dublin North Inner City,

- Cork/Kerry,

- Louth and Meath,

- Donegal.

Each initiative will be allocated €70,000. I am happy to report that the funding allocated for these services is currently being drawn down by the HSE in line with departmental guidelines.

Arising from the scoping report on community safety and wellbeing in Drogheda, the HSE is undertaking a review of statutory, voluntary and community drug services in the region. This includes the provision of family support services.

I am aware that the HSE has had an initial meeting with Family Addiction Support Network (FASN) and requested a revised funding application up to end of 2021, which is being considered.

I would encourage FASN to continue to engage with the HSE re the allocation of the additional funding for family support services in Louth and Meath.