Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Bill, which I support. It addresses a legal lacuna that exists and that has allowed communities to be ravaged by zimos and Z-drugs. The situation has been exploited by gangs and it is important that we tackle it. I hope the amendments that were tabled do not distract from the reform which the Minister of State has committed to introduce in this area. She also said she would explore the various reports that have previously been drawn up.

When I contributed to the Second Stage debate in the Dáil, I asked about the Minister of State's plans for suboxone and why she has not taken the opportunity to explore its use further. I understand a pilot scheme is in place whereby it is used as a replacement therapy for methadone. Many of those who work in communities and health care professionals would like to see legislation in that regard because changes to the licensing system require a number of months delay before they are brought into effect. While I welcome the Bill, I ask the Minister of State to provide clarity on the issue.