Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The objective of the regulation we have in mind is not simply to regulate the shops, but, hopefully, to see them go out of business altogether. The details of that legislation are being brought forward by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The legislation will involve both criminal and civil sanction in respect of an onus of proof being placed on the owners of such establishments as to the legality of the products they are selling. The legislation is in hand. The order signed with effect from midnight last night has the effect of rendering illegal what has been regarded up to now as legal under the Misuse of Drugs Act. This has a good practical outcome in terms of what has been happening today as a result of the legislation being brought to the notice of those who own these shops. They are being closed, and, hopefully, will remain closed. We must wait and see how that works out, but we will certainly bring forward legislation in this area in an effort to provide a comprehensive response on this issue.

I apologise to Deputy Kenny who also raised the question of an opportunity to discuss the issues that arose last weekend. I understand the Bill relating to the pooled bilateral loans to Greece is due to be debated in the House next week and the timing for it has already been given to the Whips. Deputies will be able to discuss all the issues under that heading. The establishment of the special purpose vehicle aspect of the €440 billion decision for a contingency fund that would arise in the event it is required may require separate legislation. However, we want to proceed with the legislation in respect of the Greek situation as quickly as possible so that we can show our bona fides and solidarity to Greece. As Deputies are aware, the first tranche will be provided within the next couple of weeks. It is not imperative that we are part of the first tranche, since it can be provided by other states that do not have the same requirement of legislative approval as us. We would like to proceed with the legislation in any event and show our good faith by doing that so that we are ready and able to assist when required. The other matter probably will require legislation. That issue is being checked out currently.

On the other aspect, the use of the Commission's own resources for the €60 billion fund which is being established, which comes from the excess or margins of the budget which is now being given first call for this purpose, this will not require legislation as it will probably be done by a Council regulation.

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