Pubdate: Sat, 19 May 2001
Source: Belfast Telegraph (UK)
Copyright: 2001 Belfast Telegraph Newspapers Ltd.
Contact:  http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/42
Author: Stephen Breen

EXECUTIVE SET TO LAUNCH NEW DRUGS INITIATIVE

A NEW initiative has been launched by the Assembly to combat drug and 
alcohol abuse in Ulster. Health Minister Bairbre de Brun confirmed the 
Executive's Drug Strategy and the Strategy for Reducing Alcohol Related 
Harm will be jointly implemented in the future.

Ms de Brun insisted "working together" was the only way to combat the problem.

She said: "A common thread running through both strategies is the need for 
an integrated approach and for partnership between government departments 
and the voluntary, community and private sector.

"There are many common features and consequences of both issues, and as 
many of the same people are involved in both strategies, it's logical for 
the two strategies to be taken forward through a joint implementation process.

"The new model will involve the creation of six working groups to develop 
specific areas of the two strategies including communities, treatment, 
education, prevention, research and information, social legislation and 
criminal justice.

"This is a significant departure from previous practice but I regard it as 
a very important and exciting initiative and it also underlines my 
commitment to real and meaningful partnerships." 
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom