Cllr Caroline O’Reilly has welcomed the unanimous support of Meath County Council for her motion supporting the rollout of SAOR II training for elected members, while also highlighting that the training is available free of charge to the wider public. The motion calls on Meath County Council to liaise with the North Eastern Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force to facilitate SAOR II training for councillors who wish to participate, strengthening their ability to respond appropriately when constituents present with alcohol or substance-related issues.
SAOR II training, delivered by the HSE through the North Eastern Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force, provides practical guidance on recognising substance use issues, having constructive conversations, and directing people towards appropriate supports.
Speaking after the meeting, Cllr O’Reilly said: “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 continued: “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 stressed that while this may not sit strictly within the formal remit of councillors, it reflects the reality of the role: “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 also encouraged members of the public, community groups, and organisations to avail of the training: “This isn’t just for councillors. SAOR II training is available free of charge, and I would strongly encourage anyone involved in community work, sports clubs, youth groups or frontline services to consider taking part.” Those interested in accessing SAOR II training can contact the North Eastern Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force for further information.
