Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It feels like it sometimes.

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire Stáit. I thank and commend my colleagues Deputies Ward and Ó Murchú on bringing forward this important proposed change in the legislation. If passed, this Bill would ensure that the proceeds of crime would be invested in social capital, primarily in disadvantaged communities, to help them improve services on the ground, and would be invested in much needed rehabilitation programmes.

This is really about rewarding the invaluable dedication of community and voluntary workers across the State who deal daily with the awful consequences of drugs and the appalling effects on local communities. It also takes a more holistic view of the problem of crime, in trying to create safer communities, through proper investment in deterrent measures and increased support for those most vulnerable from the coercion of these criminals.

One of the main reasons I speak in support of the proposed legislation today is my concern around drugs in my county of Wexford. Those who work at the coalface of addiction in Wexford have described a sea change of drug misuse, with a recent dangerous increase in fake benzodiazepines, specifically doing the rounds in the south east. The invasive nature of the pandemic of the past year and a half on people has resulted in a subsequent increase in mental health issues.

We are now in an increasingly worrying situation with regard to drug misuse in my county. On the other side, there have been several drug raids there in recent months. I commend the Wexford Garda division on its vigilant and success rate in apprehending drug dealers and confiscating large quantities of drugs. However, it has said far more resources are required to combat the growing number of drug dealers and suppliers.

This is the perfect mix of the vulnerable in communities that are at the mercy of organised criminals. This Bill, if enacted, would go a long way towards building vital services and supports for communities across the State and would be much welcomed in County Wexford. The proceeds would be guaranteed to go through the proper channels where they will produce the best results.

There are many outstanding drug task forces, family resource centres, youth organisations, unemployment services and other community services in Wexford, which are acting as a safeguard against criminals in our communities. We know they are under-resourced and go above and beyond in providing help and guidance. This Bill would help to ensure that they are properly resourced. It will help those in communities that need it most.

One final issue I implore the Government to listen to is accessibility of drug support services for those in rural parts of the county. Remote towns and villages are not serviced by public transport. People living with drug addiction in these communities need transport to get to the vital counselling and medical help they need. The Bill would go a long way to support people who have nowhere else to go. I urge all Members to support this worthy legislation.

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