799. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Health for an update on the programme for Government commitment to move to a health-led approach to drug addiction and to divert those found in possession of drugs for personal use to health services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37354/25]

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor, Minister of State at the Department of Health: The Programme for Government ‘Securing Ireland’s Future’ reaffirms the Government’s commitment to a health led approach to drugs use. It commits to divert those found in possession of drugs for personal use to health services.

The Department of Health and the Department of Justice have devised a health diversion scheme for individuals in possession of drugs for personal use, within the existing legal framework. Under the scheme, An Garda Síochána will refer individuals in possession of drugs for personal use to health services on a discretionary basis. Under the scheme, people will not be penalised for possessing drugs for personal use.

The operational details whereby people will be referred to the health services under the scheme are being finalised by An Garda Síochána and the Director of Public Prosecutions.

I believe that a health-led approach to drug use, that diverts those found in possession of drugs for personal use to health services, will lead to better outcomes for individuals and society.