David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

Is the Minister of State saying that in the past too much money was spent on these programmes or that the money spent was not used efficiently or effectively? He now seems to be able to make do with less money. Has there ever been an analysis of the cost of the illegal drug trade to the State, in terms of policing, crime, education and health? Is the illegal drug trade in the State increasing or decreasing? Will he comment on heroin misuse? It is reported it is becoming a significant problem, especially in rural areas across the country. How will cutting back on funding impact on the fight against the heroin problem and drug misuse generally in the State?

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