Dáil debates

Wednesday, 24 May 2006

 

Drug Abuse: Motion (Resumed).

7:00 pm

Photo of Michael McDowellMichael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

That is the point. I agree with that, and I am adamant in that regard. I do not know what the percentage is and it is not easy to work out. However, I say to the Deputy that we cannot rest easy while drugs are in our prisons. I say with all my heart that it is not good enough to argue that if there are drugs outside there will be drugs inside. People in prison are there for the purpose of rehabilitation. It is no more good enough to argue that than it is right to say that because there are drugs outside they are bound to be in hospitals or schools. That is not the right way forward. We must have a clear moral focus in what we say and do on this issue.

I am grateful to the Deputies who proposed the motion. I believe very strongly that the Government's amendment is a fair reflection of the truth of the situation. I ask the House to support the Government's amendment and to unite in condemning those who are making drugs available in our society.

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