411. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Health the actions undertaken to support women entering recovery from addiction journeys. [54084/26]

In 2025, women accounted for 30% of the 15, 422 treatment cases for drugs as a main problem. The link at www.hrb.ie/publication/drug-treatment-demand-in-ireland-2025/ provides the following substance-specific breakdown:

Total Cases: Women accounted for 30% of the record 15,422 drug treatment cases.

• Powder Cocaine: Women made up nearly 25% of the 4,801 powder cocaine cases.

• Crack Cocaine: Women represented nearly 45% of the 1,734 crack cocaine cases.

• Opioids: Women accounted for 25% of cases.

We know that women with problematic drug use can face added stigma and barriers in accessing drug and alcohol services. Their drug use can be more complex due to factors such as poverty, gender-based violence and homelessness.

In 2024, under the Women's Health Action Plan, €833,118 was secured for gender-specific drug services for women with complex needs, who are at risk of drug-related harms and premature death. The funding was allocated to the HSE to help address the specific barriers that women with complex needs can face in accessing drug treatment services and will develop integrated care pathways for vulnerable women. See: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-health/press-releases/minister-burke-announces-funding-of-830000-for-drug-treatment-services-under-the-womens-health-action-plan/

It is important people get the help they need, to better protect themselves, their loved ones and their communities. I would strongly encourage anyone with concerns about their own drug use, or that of a family member or friend, to seek support from your GP, local services, to find your nearest addiction treatment facility on the interactive map, or to contact the drug and alcohol helpline on 1800 459 459.”

The Department of Health’s expenditure amounted €176m on drug services in 2025, with Budget 2026 securing further funding of €1.5m to increase treatment capacity for under-served communities, in particular in rural areas. The Department has also provided additional funding to increase the capacity of Cuan Dara residential treatment centre for complex medical cases, including pregnancy.

I am committed to improving access to drug services for women and to support women in their recovery from drug use.