Dr. Eamon Keenan:

We run some crack cocaine-specific women’s programmes in Tallaght that look to address the issues the Senator mentioned. There was a recognition that many women were running into difficulties with crack cocaine and that they needed support. Through funding provided by the Department, we have introduced initiatives in Tallaght and the south inner city specifically focused on crack cocaine and supporting people in respect of that horrendous drug.

It is important to note that, year on year, we have been increasing the number of people able to access treatment for cocaine. We expect treatment figures to be released again next week. It will be interesting to see whether the impact of the funding we have received for cocaine treatment over the past two years will be reflected in those.