Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

I could not agree more with the thrust of Deputy Wall's contribution. The diversion of young people into all types of activities is probably the best way of protecting ourselves against drugs. I cannot say whether the organisations referred to have attended the meetings.

Under the RAPID process, which includes the 46 areas most deprived and engaged in drug abuse, I have been actively engaging with the Football Association of Ireland which has been proactive in terms of funding and so on. I recently met with the chief executive of the FAI to discuss how we could further co-operate with particular reference to the RAPID areas. Also, I requested my officials within the past two days to contact the ard stiúrthóir of an Cumann Lúthcleas Gael to ask if he will meet me to discuss the Irish language, the Gaeltacht and, in particular, RAPID areas. I have discussed this matter with the Leinster Council and now believe we should do so nationwide.

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