525. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health if the Health Service Executive has any record of the number of children here who are dependants of methadone users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48443/14]

The National Drugs Strategy contains a number of actions designed to assist families experiencing difficulties due to drug/alcohol use, including family support, parenting skills programmes and targeted measures focusing on the children of problem drug and/or alcohol users aimed at breaking the cycle and safeguarding the next generation.

I have asked the HSE to examine the issue raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and my officials will follow the matter up.