NDM6559 Debate: Tackling Substance Misuse

NDM6559 Julie James (Swansea West)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

Notes the progress being made in tackling the harms associated with substance misuse, as highlighted in the Welsh Government’s Substance Misuse Annual Report and Forward Look.

Substance Misuse Annual Report and Forward Look

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 Rhun ap Iorwerth (Ynys Môn)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Believes that substance misuse is a public health issue not a criminal justice issue.

Amendment 2 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets that:

a) the 2017 annual report for the Welsh Government’s 10-year substance misuse strategy, 'Working Together to Reduce Harm', shows that there has been an increase in both alcohol-related and drug-related deaths in Wales;

b) the number of people completing treatment substance free has fallen; and

c) fewer people are starting treatment within 20 days since their referral than two years ago.

Amendment 3 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to increase capacity in Tier 4 in-patient detoxification and residential rehabilitation services, recognising that this is not an alternative to recovery-focused services within the community.