Training to help Meath councillors deal with addiction and substance misuse issues
Training aimed at helping councillors respond to alcohol and substance misuse issues has received unanimous backing at a meeting of Meath County Council.
The motion, brought forward by Fianna Fáil councillor Caroline O’Reilly, calls on the local authority to liaise with the North Eastern Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force to provide SAOR II training for elected members who wish to participate.
The training, delivered through the HSE, provides guidance on recognising substance use issues, engaging in constructive conversations and directing people towards appropriate supports.
Speaking after the April meeting, Cllr O’Reilly said the training reflects the reality of the role of public representatives.
“As elected representatives, we regularly meet people dealing with complex social and health challenges, including alcohol and substance misuse. While we are not clinicians, we are often the first point of contact for individuals and families looking for support,” she said.
“In my own professional work in addiction and recovery services, I am comfortable supporting people in these situations. I’m also a trained SAOR II facilitator and have delivered this programme, and I’ve seen first-hand how effective it is in supporting early intervention and helping people access the right supports at the right time.”
“In my role as a Board member of the North Eastern Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force, I have direct insight into both the challenges and the vital supports available to individuals and families.
“I regularly hear from worried family members who don’t know what to do or where to turn. It can be incredibly stressful and anxiety-inducing for families trying to support a loved one. This training helps to ease that pressure. It gives people the confidence to have the right conversations, understand what they’re seeing, and know when it’s appropriate to guide someone towards professional support.”
Cllr O’Reilly said that while such issues may not strictly fall within the formal remit of councillors, they are frequently encountered in their work.
“This is something we encounter regularly. This training is about making sure we respond appropriately and responsibly when people come to us for help,” she said.
In response to the motion, the council said it supports the provision of training for elected members where “appropriate and relevant to their role and in accordance with the adopted Training Programme”.
The proposal will now be referred to the Corporate Policy Group for consideration.