Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

I agree with most of the Deputy's comments and I accept cocaine use is a major problem. The task forces and the national drugs strategy team are trying to make people aware of the dangers of cocaine use. The Department of Health and Children runs awareness campaigns, including a cocaine specific campaign. Cocaine is a dangerous substance with significant side effects, particularly heart failure and lung damage and mixed with alcohol, it can cause severe psychological problems and generate aggressive behaviour. We are trying to make people aware of that although it is not easy because one is fighting against an image perceived to be glamorous. There has been an example of this in the media recently. Much of the damage to individuals is not immediately or swiftly evident. Some users' problems may build up over time and they may not be aware of them.

See this speech in context