Ann Graves (Dublin Fingal East, Sinn Fein)

Tackling the causes and consequences of the drug crisis has to become a political priority. The new national drugs strategy is the opportunity for the Government to do this. To ensure success, those at the heart of the drugs crisis need to be at the core of the process. Ignoring them is simply not an option. The Government must commit to working and engaging with families, communities and community-based drug projects. I have visited projects right across Dublin, including Frontline Make Change in Bluebell, Ballyfermot Star, and SAOL in Dublin’s north inner city. I have had round-table discussions with projects, academics and community representatives, including on drug-related intimidation. They feel abandoned by consecutive Governments. I refer in particular to services for women. Projects speak with one voice and seek an input into the decision-making. What will the Minister do to ensure communities are fully consulted when drafting the national drugs strategy, what model of consultation will she use, and what is the timeline?

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