HEALTH minister Hunter Adam (pictured) was put on the spot in the States yesterday over the island’s rehabilitation facilities.

Deputy John Gollop asked whether Health and Social Services had been able to plan rehabilitation programmes and accommodation for alcoholics and substance abusers.

Deputy Adam told him the department had individual programmes that involved patients working with professionals to achieve their goals, but that it was sometimes difficult to persuade patients to get involved.

In addition, he said, a lack of staff in social services meant that although essential jobs got done, development plans and policy were being put to one side.

He was pleased to report that the need for off-island treatment for such patients had decreased.

‘And resources have been put towards research into the possibility of a residential rehabilitation facility on the island.’