Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister of State for his reply. I welcome the fact that legislation is to be enacted that will make the possession and sale of BZP illegal. It is an addictive substance that is harmful to everybody who uses it, especially young people. I ask the Minister of State to urge the Minister for Health and Children to introduce the legislation to ban the sale of this pill, BZP, as soon as possible because these shops are opening weekly throughout the country. This pill is addictive and once somebody becomes addicted to something it is very difficult to stop them using it, irrespective of whether its sale is banned. Before the end of this year, legislation should be brought forward to outlaw the sale of this dangerous drug. I understand from Senator Keaveney that this pill has caused major problems in New Zealand, where it is banned. Before it was made illegal, much harm was caused by side effects attributed to its use. The relevant legislation should be introduced before the end of the year.