Frank Feighan (Fine Gael)

I call on the Leader to invite the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to the House to debate the drugs issue. A recently published survey which took more than five years to complete indicates teenagers are abusing drugs and alcohol more often. This is an insidious crime which, if we do not deal with it immediately, will result in our losing all the fruits of our labour during the past few years. The drugs issue is becoming increasingly prevalent in every town, city and village in the country. The Garda does not have the resources or wherewithal to do anything about it.

In 2002, some 41% of those surveyed had taken drugs, up from 34% in 1997. We are told resources are available through the regional drugs task forces. Unfortunately, the problem is becoming increasingly prevalent and more people are using drugs recreationally. We must act now before matters get out of control.