55. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health if it is proposed to increase the level of funding for the North-East Drug Task Force, in view of the increased demand for services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40708/23] 

Hildegarde Naughton, Minister of State at the Department of Health: I am very aware of the key role that all Drug and Alcohol Task Forces play under the national drug strategy in coordinating interagency action and supporting evidence-informed approaches to addressing substance use in local communities. 

The Network of 24 Drug and Alcohol Task Forces receive in the region of €29 million in annual funding from the Department and the HSE of which the North East Task Force receives €937,813. 

In August I announced recurring annual funding of €3.5 million to maintain existing level of drugs and inclusion health services provided by community and voluntary organisations. 

Funding is aimed at assisting community and voluntary organisations in maintaining existing level of service for drugs and inclusion health. The funding recognises the important role of community and voluntary groups in providing drugs and inclusion health services, and acknowledges the increased costs of providing these essential services. The funding will be distributed by community healthcare organisations (CHOs), in line with guidance issued by the Department of Health. 

The funding also complements the once-off inflation fund, which provided €3.9 million to drugs and inclusion health services in 2023. www.gov.ie/en/press-release/5d2c8-minister-naughton-announces-additional-annual-funding-of-3-5-million-for-drugs-and-inclusion-health-services/# 

As discussions on the estimates for 2024 are ongoing in the lead up to the Budget it would not be appropriate for me to comment on or prejudge the outcome of this process.