Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

I stated the original strategy and local drugs task forces came out of problems in certain areas in the inner city and suburban communities of Dublin. These will always be a priority. Other people use cannabis and cocaine but they are from a range of various groups in society. The emphasis should always be on those who are most affected by drug misuse.

A different view is taken on alcohol. As called for in the mid-term review of the drugs strategy, a committee was established by the Department of Health and Children to examine the issue and it includes people from a range of agencies and Departments. Various view are taken. Some feel the two strategies should be amalgamated and others feel links should be made on particular pillars.

At preventative level, where one addresses school children and teenagers, links already exist. One speaks about the danger of addiction and does not necessarily focus on drink one day and drugs the next. Major differences also exist and we must wait to see what the committee recommends. Whatever one may state about alcohol, it is a legal substance. Drugs are illegal. Similarities and differences exist and we must wait to see what comes out of the report.

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