Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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822. To ask the Minister for Health the date of each of the initial meetings of the strategic implementation groups developed for the next phase of the National Drugs Strategy. [18076/22]

Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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823. To ask the Minister for Health the membership of each of the strategic implementation groups developed for the next phase of the National Drugs Strategy by group in tabular form. [18077/22]

Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 822 and 823 together.

Strategic implementation groups (SIGs) are being established to support the implementation of the strategic priorities for 2021-2025 under the national drugs strategy, Reducing Harm Supporting Recovery. These priorities strengthen the health-led approach, reflect commitments in the Programme for Government and align with the EU drugs strategy and action plan 2021-2025.

The new structures will reflect the partnership approach and give a stronger voice to civil society by broadening and deepening the involvement of community and voluntary groups in the implementation of the strategy.

Each group has an independent chair and a membership comprised of representatives from Government departments and agencies, drug and alcohol taskforces and civil society. The Department is finalising the membership of each group, including representatives of civil society, following a call for  expressions of interest. Once the membership is finalised, the chairs of each group will convene the first meeting. 

I am committed to the partnership approach and a stronger voice to civil society organisations in developing national policy.