Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

There have been reports of threats of resignations in the task forces over proposals in the new strategy. Is that true? What meetings has the Minister of State had with these groups? Have any outstanding issues been resolved?

I am glad alcohol has been included because I have been pushing for that for many years. People in this country have a tolerance towards drink. We do not seem to want to say we have a problem in regard to the abuse of alcohol. It is the most disastrous drug in the country and it creates more problems for families and homes than any other drug. It might be legal but by God it has created many problems in homes and I am glad it will be included in the new strategy.

I hope the tolerance we have for the abuse of alcohol will diminish and it will be like drink driving. I told the Minister of State I would support the strategy if alcohol was included in it, otherwise I would not.

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