209. Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health  the number of persons that are on the methadone treatment programme here; the cost of this programme in 2010; if there is a programme in place to assist patients to come off methadone after a certain length of time. [20265/11]

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Róisín Shortall): The number of persons that were on methadone treatment at the end of May 2011 was 9,157. The full year cost in 2010 for community Pharmacist and GP involvement under the methadone programme was over €17.5m as set out in the table.

I have asked the HSE for details of other costs that are met within its overall budget for addiction services. The provision of methadone, to those assessed as suitable for such treatment, is an internationally recognised approach as a medium to longer term response that aims to achieve stabilisation and independent functioning for clients. I am aware of the desirability of moving people on from methadone use, where appropriate and possible, and I intend that increased focus will be put on the rehabilitation of problem drug users.

Written Answers - National Drugs Strategy