Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I thank the Minister of State for his presentation and presence in the Chamber. I thank Senator Terry for sharing her time with me.

I also welcome the Bill which has already been passed in the other House. I am concerned it has taken such a long time to get to this stage. I agree with the Minister of State that it is important to enact it as quickly as possible. It is necessary legislation which implements an earlier UN convention which did not deal comprehensively with the area of jurisdiction. It is an important part of dealing with the drugs problem, which is an international problem. As the Minister of State said, it does not have any borders. This Bill and other legislation on international co-operation are important in tackling drugs related and other types of crime.

The drugs problem has a devastating impact on communities. The work done to help them to tackle drug addiction is important. I refer specifically to the work done under the national drugs strategy. We need more resources for community development which would help to prevent drug addiction. Money was found recently to resolve the issue of the reintroduction of third level fees. This shows money can be found for important issues relating to disadvantage. The Government must also accept responsibility for finding money for projects such as the RAPID programme which operates in part of my area where there is a drugs problem.