Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2025
950. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Health if the decision to not include local drugs and alcohol task forces in the new “reference group” to support the implementation of the new National Drugs Strategy will be revisited and they will be included to ensure that those responsible for implementing the strategy at a local level are included in discussions. [62740/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraA reference group has been established to support the development of the successor national drugs strategy. The remit of the Reference Group is to
• Provide feedback on the draft strategy, governance, and action plan for the new national drugs strategy.
• Help identify challenges and opportunities and share insights from their communities or sectors.
• Suggest practical solutions based on frontline experience to inform the drafting of the governance and action plans for the delivery of the new strategy.
The Reference Group provides real-world knowledge and lived experience of drug use to inform the drafting of the new strategy.
The reference group brings together people from community and voluntary organisations from all regions of the country, to share ideas, experiences, and advice to help the successor national drugs strategy to better address the harms arising from drug use.
The reference group includes individuals involved with family support services, community drug projects, safer nightlife, drug task forces, drug prevention, community action against alcohol, and initiatives to tackle drug related harm and intimidation.
I believe the process to develop the successor National Drug Strategy is inclusive, transparent and evidence-based.
