CIVIC LEADERSHIP

Substance Abuse Strategy – A Multi-Agency Approach

Background

Many of the complex cross-cutting problems facing citizens, communities and governments (e.g. financial austerity; care for an ageing population; alcohol and drug misuse; crime and the fear of crime) cannot be resolved simply by more legislation, finance or public services, but demand innovative changes in attitudes, behaviours and responsibilities by citizens, and the co design of solutions with the public.

The effects of excessive alcohol consumption and substance abuse are creating a major public health, societal and environmental problem that is common to every County in Ireland. Sligo County Council intend to work with those charged to address these issues and support their drive for a local leadership process that will promote public value and adaptive leadership to tackle tough problems that include alcohol and other substances.

Mobilising a collaborative advantage will endorse and support a multi-agency approach to changing the alcohol and substance abuse culture in Sligo that will impact positively on all citizens’ lives.

Proposed Strategic Objective

Sligo County Council will support the development and facilitation of a civic process by the relevant agencies, to protect Sligo from the negative impacts of alcohol culture on our citizens and visitors, and will encourage all stakeholders to play a key role in developing socially acceptable alcohol behaviour.