Alliance shows concern over closure of addiction rehabilitation unit

2.26.13pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 22nd Aug 2007

Alliance Health spokesperon Kieran McCarthy

Alliance Health spokesperson Kieran McCarthy MLA has voiced his concern over the closure of the Cuan Mhuire rehabilitation unit in Newry that treats over 2,000 people with alcohol, drugs and gambling addictions. The unit closed as it was deemed not to meet safety standards as it waits for a new centre to be built.

The Alliance Chief Whip said: "This very distressing news indeed, especially as there are currently no alternative arrangements for current patients.

"We should be opening more addiction rehabilitation units instead of shutting down these invaluable treatment centres.

"This is particularly worrying given the recent reports showing that drug and alcohol abuse is increasing especially amongst young people. So without units such as Cuan Mhuire this young people face a difficult future.

"Funding for other such units has been turned down recently by the Health Minister Michael McGimpsey and in light of today's events I would urge him to put more money into rehabilitation units that provide such vital lifelines for these vulnerable people."

ENDS