SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan
The APG was established by the SDLP in 2020 and supports enhanced dual diagnoses and services for those suffering from mental ill health and addiction with a focus on under 18s.
Said the Foyle MLA: “Sadly, addiction is rife within our communities but particularly in the North West and other areas of high deprivation.
“Poor mental health and substance abuse often go hand in hand.
“It’s crucial that facilities here recognise the need for dual diagnosis and are adequately supported to ensure appropriate and effective care for patients.
“There is still some way to go to destigmatise addiction and improve outcomes for the many people across our society who struggle with it.
“I hope this APG will help ensure cross-party and cross-departmental working to improve models of care to better support individuals at their lowest points.
“The need for these services will be even more profound as we deal with the consequences of the last few years and the impact it’s had on lives here.
“The number of drug-related deaths registered in Northern Ireland since 2020 have been the highest on record.
“That frightening reality has seen hundreds of families here devastated by the loss of their loved ones.
“It’s crucial that new models of care are explored and that access to these services is improved to get people the help they need when they need it.
“In order to work effectively and bring about meaningful change, the APG requires the restoration of our institutions.
“It is incumbent on all of us to work together to create more health focused, harm reduction models that provides support for those suffering with addiction.”
