26/03/2026
I’m glad to have helped organise this upcoming focus group on the draft National Drugs Strategy with SURF - Substance Use Regional Forum
I’m looking forward to the engagement on Monday and to hearing directly from community organisations, frontline services, and people with lived experience.
National policy needs to reflect what people are dealing with on the ground.
Some of the issues I will be raising include:
• the need for properly funded local addiction and recovery services
• stronger supports for families affected by substance use
• early intervention and youth-focused services
• better joined-up work between health, housing, mental health, and community services
• the need for proper recognition and support for people dealing with dual diagnosis, where addiction and mental health issues overlap
• making sure lived experience shapes policy in a real way, not as an afterthought
• responses that focus on health, support, and recovery
If you can attend:
• Monday 30 March
• 11am to 1pm
• CKLP, Kildare Community Development Centre
• Meadow Rd, Tully East, Kildare, R51 RF88
Gary Gannon TD will be speaking on the day as Chair of the Joint Committee on Drugs Use.
I hope to see a strong turnout and a good, honest discussion.
The DARA Project Cuan Mhuire Drug Alcohol Treatment Centre Foróige Drug Prevention & Education Initiative
