Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister of State and thank him for his report. The national drugs strategy is probably one of the most important initiatives in the State. It is indicative of the serious situation with which we are dealing and of our determination to combat the drugs culture. Nobody can be oblivious to the damage that has been done. The media has highlighted it in many ways and, in particular, through outlining case histories.

We have seen cases where people have come forward and shared with us their torment and the efforts they have made to overcome their drug addiction. We are discussing here the downside of modern society. It is easy to point to success, glamour, affluence and the positive aspects of current life and there are many examples of young people who have achieved much. We would not deserve any kudos, however, if we ignored the downside of life.