Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

The Senator referred to the national drugs strategy group which has been allocated 800 places on community employment schemes and there has not been a reduction in that number. However, there is a question mark over them this year. Bearing Senator Norris's comments in mind, I would like to ensure these places are not affected because they are important.

I welcome the Minister of State back to the Seanad. He has immense experience, both in the Dáil and the Seanad, as Minister and Minister of State. Nobody has more practical experience of these schemes than him and I have no doubt he will ensure the maximum number of places is retained. However, we are living in the real world and we must be practical.