1739. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Health for an update on the family support aspect of the national drugs strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38323/23]

Hildegarde Naughton, Minister of State at the Department of Health: The National Drug Strategy, Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery, sets out government policy on drug and alcohol use for the period 2017 to 2025. The strategy provides an integrated public health approach to drug and alcohol use, focused on reducing the harms for individuals, families and communities and promoting rehabilitation and recovery. The strategy recognises the importance of service users and their families in contributing to the planning, design, and delivery of effective services.

The Midterm Review identified six strategic priorities for the remaining years of the strategy until 2025. Strategic Implementation Group 2 (SIG 2) was set up to enhance access and delivery of drug and alcohol services in the community, in line with the Sláintecare population health model of ‘right care, right place, right time’.

In line with the above, in August I announced additional recurring funding in the amount of €240,000 allocated to the HSE to fund family support measures. For further information see

gov.ie - Minister Naughton announces additional funding for Family Support under the national drugs strategy (www.gov.ie)

Among the specific goals of the allocation are to:

• develop and broaden the range of supports for family members affected by addiction with a particular focus on virtual accessibility and supports through the RISE Foundation
• continue the coordination of training and support available for practitioners to deliver the 5-Step Method Intervention through C&F Training
• enable a mapping of family support services nationally in order to identify priority areas and maximise and strengthen the provision of services

Drug use by a family member doesn’t just affect the user; it can have a profound impact on family members, particularly children. I am very aware that families provide valuable support to a loved one affected by substance on their journey to recovery. I also recognise that families also have their own needs at this difficult time.

I am committed to continuing to support interventions like the five-step method that specifically supports families in their own right and not just as the main supporter for their loved one’s treatment.