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.