Call for new addiction programmes funding

COOLMINE Therapeutic Community is calling on the Government to invest in modern addiction programmes.

The drug and alcohol treatment centre made the call at the recent European Federation of Therapeutic Communities, (EFTC), bi-annual conference, ‘Pathway to Recovery’ in Dublin Castle.

Coolmine says it has developed new programmes to respond to the changing face of addiction in Irish society and wants the Government to invest in modern, internationally successful addiction programmes.

Speaking at the conference, Chief Executive, Pauline McKeown, said: “The Government must support the establishment of modern programmes including drug-free therapeutic communities within the prisons, bespoke therapy and care for women and a practical housing plan for those completing their treatment.”

The EFTC ‘Pathway to Recovery’ conference was officially opened by the Minister for Justice and Equality, Charlie Flanagan. Hosted by Coolmine, the conference included presentations from US, Europe and Australia.