Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I can only agree with the Deputy on the importance of rehabilitation facilities and their being available at the point at which the addict is ready to make use of them. It is very problematic when there are waiting lists in this regard. We need to continue to invest in drug rehabilitation services. Of that there is no doubt.

Regarding the Deputy's question about the legal approach to drug use, I am sure he is familiar with the Oireachtas joint committee's report and what it stated about the position in Ireland. The committee considered the situation in Portugal and made some very interesting recommendations. No doubt they will be considered when the legislation on centres is brought before the House. The report did, however, recommend that in the future, while calling for the possession of drugs for personal use to continue to be considered prohibited behaviour, it be dealt with in an alternative manner by way of a civil-administrative response rather than being managed via the criminal justice route. I note the report which was both very comprehensive and very good and I know that it was being considered by the former Minister of State Aodhán Ó Ríordáin. No doubt when the legislation is brought before the House, it will form part of the discussion.

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