Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Some weeks ago, I raised with the Minister for Justice the need to introduce additional measures to tackle the scourge of drugs now prevalent in every community throughout our country. As we know, drug addiction and drug abuse are complex issues. We need a multifaceted approach that includes the health service as well as the criminal justice system. The Minister, Deputy Harris, replied to me that some additional legislative measures aimed at those who direct gangland crime and drug-related crime would be introduced. I welcome the Minister's commitment in that respect and hope that such measures can be put in place without delay. Sadly, individuals, families and communities are being destroyed by the prevalence of drugs and by drug peddling by criminals. I hope the Taoiseach can give an assurance that such legislation will be introduced without delay. We also need more help for victims, better resourcing of drug task forces and more support for groups working with people who are subject to addiction.

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