Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail)
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Go raibh maith agat. I thank everyone for attending, for the opening statements and, most importantly, for the work they and the members of their organisations do every day. They truly are the front line of healthcare in our country and provide incredibly valuable services. My dad was a GP and I grew up in a family practice, so I understand exactly what is involved. Pharmacies also provide an incredible service.

The opening statements led very clearly with an approach that emphasised human sensitivity.

I guess for us, as legislators, this is a different subject matter to be dealing with because it involves the human condition and human frailty. They eloquently articulate the devastation and damage that is caused by addiction and drug abuse.

In their opening statements, each of the witnesses spoke about the four steps we are considering as a committee: diversion, depenalisation, decriminalisation and legalisation. I seek clarification. I think I am hearing that neither of the two groups is in favour of full legalisation of drugs. I would like them to confirm that. The witnesses are all in favour of depenalisation and diversion, and decriminalisation in the context of a very significant and comprehensive framework being put in place that would be all encompassing. When it comes to decriminalisation, are the witnesses in favour of decriminalisation of all drugs, regardless of their potency and at the one time? Maybe I could start with the pharmacies and then come to the GPs.