Menu
21/06/2001
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)
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)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
17 December 2010
Many Arrests In Gardaí Drugs Raids
A total of 45 people have been arrested in the past 48 hours in Gardaí a crackdown on the sale and supply of heroin and 'crack' cocaine in the Dublin region. The operation, which involved Garda drug units from Kevin Street, Pearse Street and Store Street stations, resulted in 150 charges being brought, according to Gardaí this morning.
Many Arrests In Gardaí Drugs Raids
A total of 45 people have been arrested in the past 48 hours in Gardaí a crackdown on the sale and supply of heroin and 'crack' cocaine in the Dublin region. The operation, which involved Garda drug units from Kevin Street, Pearse Street and Store Street stations, resulted in 150 charges being brought, according to Gardaí this morning.
28 July 2023
PSNI And UK Counterparts Carry Out Joint Operation
A number of search operations have been conducted in England and Northern Ireland in a coordinated operation between the PSNI's Organised Crime Unit and the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit.
PSNI And UK Counterparts Carry Out Joint Operation
A number of search operations have been conducted in England and Northern Ireland in a coordinated operation between the PSNI's Organised Crime Unit and the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit.
01 March 2017
New Ad Campaign Launched To Encourage Reporting Of Drug Dealing
A major ad campaign has been launched urging the public to report drug dealing to Crimstoppers. The campaign, which will feature viral videos alongside bus, adshel, online and radio advertising, aims to highlight the damage drugs do to individuals, families and communities.
New Ad Campaign Launched To Encourage Reporting Of Drug Dealing
A major ad campaign has been launched urging the public to report drug dealing to Crimstoppers. The campaign, which will feature viral videos alongside bus, adshel, online and radio advertising, aims to highlight the damage drugs do to individuals, families and communities.
27 January 2005
Research reveals extent of drug use in NI
A new report into behavioural habits of injecting drug users in Northern Ireland has found that almost one in three people who use needles to inject drugs have been diagnosed with Hepatitus C.
Research reveals extent of drug use in NI
A new report into behavioural habits of injecting drug users in Northern Ireland has found that almost one in three people who use needles to inject drugs have been diagnosed with Hepatitus C.
22 October 2013
Specialist Drug Rehab Unit For Maghaberry
A new drug rehabilitation unit is to be opened at Maghaberry jail next year. The specialist unit is the first of its kind in the UK, according to prison service officials. The facility will allow 15 prisoners to undertake a 12 week intensive programme at Glenn House on the prison site.
Specialist Drug Rehab Unit For Maghaberry
A new drug rehabilitation unit is to be opened at Maghaberry jail next year. The specialist unit is the first of its kind in the UK, according to prison service officials. The facility will allow 15 prisoners to undertake a 12 week intensive programme at Glenn House on the prison site.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
