Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I join Senator Cummins and others in calling for a debate on drugs. As was said, we have often been critical of RTE but it did a super job in last night's programme bringing to our attention, in a forceful way, the shocking availability of drugs in our country. Traces of cocaine were found in 92% of places surveyed. Sadly, it is being made available too freely not only in clubs but in colleges. The late night, needless violence on streets in particular locations has also been referred to. There is an issue of education and I hope the Minister of State is doing his best in that regard.

As Senator Cummins said, we are quite prepared to back the Government in making available the maximum resources needed to deal with this problem. Perhaps more effective deployment is needed. We know where drugs are being, or are likely to be, made available. Perhaps that is something the Minister of State will examine in conjunction with the Garda so there is a more focused approach. We must resist and fight against the acceptability of this damn drug — cocaine.