John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)

My Department co-ordinated the Irish input into the development of the EU Drugs Action Plan 2009-2012 which was finalised late last year. Problem drug use is a global phenomenon and, in this context, it is important that we take an international perspective. Engagement at EU level is important and various Departments and agencies, as well as representatives of civil society in more recent times, are involved in this. Overall, I feel that we have a lot to offer, as well as a lot to gain, through the various fora involved.

A steering group, chaired by my Department is developing proposals on the new national drugs strategy covering the period 2009-16. As part of its terms of reference, the group will be examining developments in drugs policies and in dealing with problem drug use generally, at EU and international levels. I expect to receive its proposals and recommendations by the end of March and I will then consider them before seeking Government approval for the new strategy.

I envisage that the new strategy will incorporate a four year action plan for 2009-12, to coincide with the EU policy period, bringing us into line with the EU timeframe. I further envisage that it will fulfil the objectives of the EU action plan across its five main priorities areas, namely, co-ordination, demand reduction, supply reduction, international co-operation and information, research and evaluation.

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