776. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the new Action Plan under the National Drugs Strategy. [39211/22]

Minister of State at the Department of Health Frank Feighan:

Strategic Implementation Groups have been established to support the implementation of the six strategic priorities for 2021-2025, identified in mid-term review of the national drugs strategy, Reducing Harm Supporting Recovery. These priorities will 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 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. Membership of the Groups is comprised of representatives from Government departments and agencies, drug and alcohol taskforces and civil society.

Independent leadership has been provided to ensure the accountability of all stakeholders and to bring impartiality, insight, and experience in addressing the challenges of drug and alcohol use. The independent chairs from each implementation group have become members of the National Oversight Committee. There are no Government departments acting as chairs for these Strategic Implementation Groups.

Strategic Implementation Groups will be responsible for developing their own action plans. Chairs will report to the National Oversight Committee on the progress made within their respective groups. The next meeting of the National Oversight Group is scheduled for September.

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