Public Health and Social Affairs Minister Mervin Wyatt-Ras addressed criticism about visible street addictions, noting the issue has existed for a long time and requires coordinated care rather than blame. She explained that addiction services now fall jointly under Public Health and Social Affairs (previously under Justice), enabling a more interdisciplinary approach.
Wyatt-Ras highlighted rising cases with “double trouble”—individuals facing both addiction and mental health or psychosocial challenges—who can be referred to specialized services. Outreach teams (Bemoeingzorg) engage people on the street, offering food, conversation, and motivation to seek help at facilities where they can eat, bathe, and begin therapy for addiction.
She also urged residents experiencing homelessness or hardship to register and seek assistance through the appropriate departments, emphasizing that help isn’t obtained via social media posts but by contacting the responsible agencies. The Ministry is working to improve pathways so people know where and how to access support.
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/minister-wyatt-ras-ta-splica-e-posibilidadnan-cu-tin-pa-atende-y-trata-e-adictonan-ambulante
