Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

I thank the Minister of State for his detailed reply. Obviously, we have seen in recent months the effort, time and dedication given in respect of road traffic deaths. A similar matter is coming on stream now. I wish to be associated with the sympathies expressed by the Minister of State to the Doyle family. I also wish the Grey family well. After a major level of debate, advertisement and involvement in road deaths, we need a similar effort in drugs and the deaths related to drugs. A chance meeting in a public house led to the person in Waterford going to a party and the young man, who fought cancer and had the world at his feet, is unfortunately dead. I acknowledge the Minister of State's point about advertisements but it is no use that the HSE will take steps in the new year. I ask the Minister of State to broadcast verbal warnings on the radio and an appeal before the Christmas party season begins. It would be of benefit and it should be done. I ask the Minister of State and the senior Minister to consider this. They have the lead in this and have the support of the Opposition, as seen in last week's debate. This should be a once-off measure, after which the HSE can undertake a campaign. Something should be done for the Christmas period.

See this speech in context