New Minister of State with Responsibility for Drugs Strategy appointed

Labour TD Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has been appointed as Minister of State for the Drugs Strategy in addition to his existing responsibilities.

The Deputy for Dublin North Central also serves as Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality and Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht with special responsibility for Equality, New Communities and Culture.

Minister for Health Leo Varadkar welcomed the appointment today.

"Aodhán is a committed and diligent Minister and will be a very welcome addition to the Department of Health," he said.

"I look forward to working with him.

"There is a lot of merit in appointing a cross-Departmental Minister for Drugs, as there is a significant overlap between Health and Justice in this area, ranging from treatment and prevention to enforcement and diversion.

"The new role will bring together the work and actions of the HSE and Gardaí among others.

"Aodhán is being appointed at a good time as the Department has just started work on the new National Drugs Strategy.

"Extra funding of €2.1m has been allocated in 2015 to provide more residential treatment and rehabilitation places, more needle-exchanges and the Naloxone pilot project. I have also ended the cycle of cuts in funding for Local Drugs and Alcohol Taskforces.

"Clearly the drugs issue remains a major challenge, particularly in urban areas but also in rural parts. I wish Aodhán the very best in his new role. I know that he is committed to the equality agenda and has an excellent track record of community work.

"This new post will only work if everyone rallies behind the new Minister. And I for one intend to do so and give my fullest support."