August 20, 2020
Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous members must not be forgotten under new Covid-19 restrictions – Thomas Gould TD

Speaking today in response to news that Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings have had to be postponed again due to the new government restrictions, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Addiction, Recovery and Wellbeing, Thomas Gould TD, has called on Junior Minister Frank Feighan to seek provisions for these vital meetings.

Teachta Gould said:

“The Junior Minister is nowhere to be seen. Exceptions have been made, seemingly at the request of other Ministers, for certain groups but there is no indication that Minister Feighan advocated on behalf of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous members.

“If clusters have arisen from these meetings then they must be stopped but we have no information on that. These meetings are controlled environments where contact tracing, social distancing and risk management is possible.

“These are well-run and well-managed organisations that I would trust to put their members first and do everything in their power to keep society safe while still providing the support necessary to those struggling with past problematic drug and alcohol misuse during this pandemic.

“For some people, these meetings are a life-line to help them retain their sobriety and their link to support systems. We are already seeing an increase in drug and alcohol dependency because of this pandemic, I am now fearful that if there is no exception given to NA and AA meetings, we could see a rise in relapses.

“I’ve emailed the Minister asking him to look for an exemption for them and reminding him of his important role in protecting these people.

“I would call on the government to clarify that these meetings are subject to the same exceptions given to theatres and cinemas. People with problematic alcohol and drug misuse in their past suffered during lockdown and it is unfair to overlook their difficulties now.

“If the Government is serious about combatting drug and alcohol misuse in society, then they need to seriously reconsider this apparent oversight. People in recovery need a strong voice in government. I have serious concerns about Minister Feighan’s ability to be that voice.”

Follow us online

Latest Tweets

The Government’s Hate Speech legislation must be scrapped!

Government failed to take on board any of Sinn Féin's concerns and amendments about the Bill as it proceeded through the Oireachtas.

It's clear the Bill is not fit for purpose and it must be scrapped. - @Donnchadhol

Government has had 4 years to tackle the issues within healthcare. Sinn Féin has published detailed plans to improve health services.

Tomorrow @davidcullinane will be launching his plan to make local health services better & more accessible for people, families and communities.

I was delighted to visit the Carntogher Community Association in South Derry as they marked their 30th anniversary.

The Association continues to transform the local community, empower and provide new opportunities for people of all ages, and ensure the local Gaeltacht continues…

"Simon Harris has sat at Cabinet Table for 8 years, please don’t try and sell us old wine in new bottles. What we have at best is a Leo lite."

The time is right for a General election. Fine Gael are out of time and out of touch. Call the election. @loreillysf

Load More