Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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810. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he is concerned regarding the levels of drug-taking within Ireland's third level student community; the efforts that can be taken to clamp down on drug use within the student community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54367/22]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I am conscious of how drug use can hinder the progression and participation of students in tertiary education.

The National Drugs and Alcohol Strategy (2017-2025) represents a framework for dealing with the issues of Drug and Alcohol use in Ireland. In introducing the strategy, the Taoiseach noted that Ireland has a problem with substance misuse. Rates of drug use in Ireland have risen significantly over the last decade with the greatest increase seen among young people. ‘Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery’ is a whole of government approach that emphasises a health led response to drug and alcohol use in Ireland.

The strategy highlights the need to reduce the harms associated with substance use along with combating underlying reasons for the demand for drugs. I am engaging with the Stakeholders in order to identify areas that can address the issue of drug misuse on Campus.

In July 2021 I co-launched Healthy Campus Ireland with the Minister for Health, which aims to embed health and wellbeing into decisions around teaching and learning. This takes a positive and proactive approach to all aspects of campus life including mental health, wellbeing and drug use.

An important resource in identifying drug misuse, which I launched in January was the first national survey report on drug use in third level institutions undertaken by UCC. This data is vital to map the extent of the issue and will help us to develop appropriate responses and monitor trends in drug use in higher education over the coming years.