Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

That is only part of what is spent. All of our initiatives through the local or regional drugs task forces are pilot schemes, which are then evaluated and mainstreamed. Approximately €25 million worth of funding has moved out into the mainstream. In the region of €70 million is being spent each year on projects that began at community level. When one adds this to the €80 million or €90 million invested by the HSE, it is clear that the Government is spending approximately €200 million on trying to tackle the drugs problem. I am sure that this funding will continue and that it will be increased because the problem is not going to go away.

If I begin to lay down too many targets, the Deputy will return to the House next month, criticise me for not achieving them and accuse me of failing.

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