John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)

I acknowledge the figures the Deputy mentioned, but if we look at the figures for both prior to and after the campaign, we see some significant changes with regard to people's perspective. The figures changed during that period. I agree with the Deputy that a one-off campaign is not sufficient. The HSE campaign was public and we are now conducting the local campaign. However, if we are to conduct campaigns in the future, they will need to be closely aligned and monitored. I am probably leaving myself open to criticism when I say the local campaign we are currently conducting should have been planned within a closer timeframe. In respect of advertising, the Road Safety Authority has fostered a shift of minds through its continual promotion of issues. Particularly with regard to the new national drugs strategy, this area deserves closer attention because we need to maintain momentum.

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