Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply. We must do everything possible to prevent the sale of some of the products found in head shops throughout the State. My question as tabled referred to SI 62 of 2004 of the European Union, which governs the packaging and labelling of dangerous products. Unfortunately, that part of the question was not accepted. I am interested to discover whether this provision can be used to outlaw the sale of dangerous products in head shops. I welcome today's announcement by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform of the banning of certain chemical products. My colleagues and I have repeatedly queried the delay in taking such initiatives. It is obvious now that action can be taken quickly if it is pursued vigorously enough. Members of all parties have been asking for six months that this issue be taken seriously and dealt with in legislation without delay.

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