1796. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Health if he will allocate additional resources to transgender healthcare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1848/22]

Frank Feighan, Minister of State at the Department of Health: In Budget 2022, I secured an additional €6m for new measures to support the implementation of the national drugs strategy, 'Reducing Harm Supporting Recovery'. This funding will be used to strengthen the health-led approach to drug and alcohol use, as set out in the Programme for Government. It will also support the strategic priorities for 2021-2025 identified in the mid-term review of the national drugs strategy. The funding will be used to recruit 50 health care professionals, such as clinical nurse specialists, psychologists, addiction counsellors and project workers, to provide specialist drug and alcohol services.

I do not have a remit in the provision of funding for transgender services. This falls within the wider remit of the Minister of Health.