Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Wall is correct that heroin use is prevalent in all parts of the country. Some communities are good at recognising the need to address the issue and many have done so. I have travelled extensively in the context of examining interventions. Deputy Wall referred to the Leas-Cheann Comhairle's area, which is an example of how despite a community's response to a problem there will always be obstacles. There will always be someone who will the test the planning process and so on. This issue needs to be addressed and is being addressed.

There is no doubt but that alternatives must be found. The best alternative is prevention. In this regard, the education programmes in and outside our schools are good, including the Walk Tall and Social Personal and Health Education programmes, which are being well taught. Work with young people outside the school setting is also important. Increasingly, people are of the view that what is needed are good community facilities and alternatives be they GAA, soccer clubs, youth cafés, canoeing or cycling or walking trails and so on. What is at long last emerging is recognition that the family plays a key role in prevention. I strongly recommend that Members read the report published last week by the National Advisory Committee on Drugs. The report, which many Members may already have read, deals with early school leavers and their engagement with drugs versus those who remain in school. It references their primary influences being parents, teachers, peer group and the community.

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