Rory O'Hanlon
Question:364 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people aged 15 to 20 years admitted to psychiatric units for abuse of alcohol and drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24371/01]
Written Answers. - Alcohol-Drug Treatment Services.
In 1999, there were 374 admissions to psychiatric units for alcohol and drug abuse in people under 20 years of age.
The report on the development of the psychiatric services, Planning for the Future, recommended that the emphasis on the management of alcohol and drug abuse should be on community-based intervention. Health boards have developed local alcohol-drugs services and recruited addiction counsellors to work in the community. The development of alternative treatment facilities in the community should reduce the necessity for admission to psychiatric units.
The National Drugs Strategy which was published in May by the Taoiseach pays particular attention to the treatment of young drug users. It recommends that a protocol be developed for the treatment of persons under 18 years of age presenting with serious drug problems especially in light of the legal and other dilemmas which are posed for professionals involved in the area and that a working group should be established for this purpose. I understand the Eastern Regional Health Authority is in the process of approving membership and terms of reference of this group and it is expected that the group will report by mid-2002.