MINISTER OPENS SPECIALIST ADDICTIONS UNIT IN ANTRIM

MINISTER for Health, Social Services and Public Safety Bairbre de Brún has opened a dedicated in-patient drug addictions unit at Holywell Hospital in Antrim.

Performing the official opening Ms de Brún said: "In meeting our aim of reducing drug related harm head-on, we need to recognise and accept that drug use exists."

The new ten-bed separate specialist addictions unit at Holywell Hospital was created from refurbished accommodation in the existing building. The ward consists of a four-bedded male detoxification bay, one double room and four single rooms. Two group rooms are available together with bathing, leisure and dining areas.

The unit is funded from the extra £4.5m resources allocated through the Drug Strategy and is available to patients from the Homefirst Trust area who are either unsuitable for, or unlikely to benefit from, less intensive treatments.

Speaking about the disparity of opinion around the numbers of individuals using heroin Ms de Brún said: "The extent of that increase has been and continues to be the subject of much debate. Work is underway to establish accurate baselines."

Encouraging those present to take the opportunity to share experiences and explore best practice, Ms de Brún said: "We have learned much from others about the treatment of drug problems. We have learned that residential and specialist drug units are beneficial to both service users and the community. We have learned that specialist inpatient detoxification programmes can have significant impact on certain types of drug misusers who may not benefit from outpatient detoxification. "

The Minister also outlined the new arrangements for the joint implementation of the Drug Strategy and the Strategy for Reducing Alcohol Related Harm, which were announced recently. (SP)