Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Recent reports have dealt with deaths from substance misuse. These have highlighted the widespread availability and misuse of prescription drugs, which are key factors in these deaths. From drugs task forces we know that the main drugs of abuse are prescription drugs followed by alcohol. I wish to ask about secondary legislation. Approximately 15 months ago new draft regulations were drawn up to restrict dealing in, possession of and prescribing of benzodiazepines. What is the reason for the delay in signing off on those new regulations? They are very much overdue and have the potential to transform the situation regarding dealing in prescription drugs. When will those regulations be signed?

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