1064. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health his plans to make a provision for gambling addictions in the next HSE service plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37714/17]

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): The National Service Plan 2017 sets out the services provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE) for people with addiction issues. People who present to the HSE for addiction treatment for gambling are offered the same range of interventions as those who present with a drug and alcohol addiction, or a mental health concern, including an initial assessment, a comprehensive assessment, and individual counselling. Counselling and rehabilitation services provide care to those presenting with a gambling addiction through one to one counselling, financial advice and onward referral to other services and supports where appropriate, such as Gamblers Anonymous.

In addition, the HSE provides funding to a number of voluntary sector providers who, in addition to treating drug and alcohol addictions, also treat gambling addiction.