Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy's comments are reasonable. I repeat the reply that the programme has been generally successful and has reduced crime. I accept it is not suitable for everyone and it is not a long-term solution to put people on methadone and expect it to last for the rest of their lives. I mentioned bupenorphrine, which is called subutex in other countries. A report also exists on naloxone. The Department of Health and Children is examining those other drugs and they may be prescribed for some people. Some of them have aspects which would be suitable for some and not for others.

As part of the mid-term review we generally accepted that putting people on methadone is not a long-term answer. That is why the working group on rehabilitation was established and why rehabilitation will get a higher status as the fifth pillar from now on. I accept the point made by Deputy Crowe that being put on methadone is a temporary solution and it should not continue for years.

See this speech in context