EXECUTIVE SET TO LAUNCH NEW DRUGS INITIATIVE

A NEW initiative has been launched by the Assembly to combat drug and
alcohol abuse in Ulster. Health Minister Bairbre de Brun confirmed the
Executive's Drug Strategy and the Strategy for Reducing Alcohol Related
Harm will be jointly implemented in the future.

Ms de Brun insisted "working together" was the only way to combat the problem.

She said: "A common thread running through both strategies is the need for
an integrated approach and for partnership between government departments
and the voluntary, community and private sector.

"There are many common features and consequences of both issues, and as
many of the same people are involved in both strategies, it's logical for
the two strategies to be taken forward through a joint implementation process.

"The new model will involve the creation of six working groups to develop
specific areas of the two strategies including communities, treatment,
education, prevention, research and information, social legislation and
criminal justice.

"This is a significant departure from previous practice but I regard it as
a very important and exciting initiative and it also underlines my
commitment to real and meaningful partnerships."