689. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health if she will ensure that alcohol is included and made a priority in the new national drugs strategy; if she will arrange to meet a coalition group that made contact with her office (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35307/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, Minister for Health: The Department of Health is developing a successor national drugs strategy. In line with the existing strategy, the successor strategy will address cross sectoral issues including the provision of treatment services for problematic drug and alcohol use & the development of initiatives to prevent drug and alcohol use.

I met with Alcohol Action Ireland on the 9th April to discuss public health alcohol policy and alcohol treatment services. Alcohol Action Ireland is a lead agency in the coalition group referred to by the deputy. I am happy to continue to engage with advocacy groups on alcohol.

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Dáil Éireann Debate. Question 365 – Substance misuse [36837/25] 3 July 2025

365. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health if the new national drugs strategy will include a comprehensive policy on tackling alcohol consumption; if this will be prioritised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36837/25]

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor, Minister of State at the Department of Health: The Department of Health is developing a successor national drugs strategy. In line with the existing strategy, the successor strategy will address cross sectoral issues including the provision of treatment services for problematic drug and alcohol use & the development of initiatives to prevent drug and alcohol use.

It is my ambition that the new national drugs strategy will strengthen the health-led approach to drug use by addressing the health and social needs of people use drugs, reducing the harms associated with drug use, and supporting recovery from drug addiction.