Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

I agree with all Members' comments in regard to the adverse weather conditions being experienced and how this is impacting in an adverse way on societies around the country. Today the Taoiseach is visiting County Westmeath, the south of which, in particular Athlone, did not escape the floods. I understand that the €10 million provided is to assist in the relief of hardship for flood victims. I welcome the Taoiseach's indication that this amount will be increased.

I agree with Senator Twomey's comments in regard to murders. There is a view obtaining among certain sections of society that one can pretty well do anything one wants and get away with it. I congratulate the Garda Síochána for its great successes in terms of drug seizures. However, I recently spoke with a high ranking member of the Garda who openly admitted to me that what they are achieving is only touching the tip of the iceberg, which is a sad admission.

The Joint Policing Committees, JPCs, are to be rolled-out. I believe that these fora have great potential to assist the Garda Síochána in its fight against the drug barons. However, the Garda Síochána will not on its own defeat those involved in the drug trade. This is a matter for society. It is only through society supporting the Garda and agencies involved that the drug barons will be defeated. I ask the Deputy Leader to invite the Minister of State, Deputy Curran, an innovative young man in terms of his role in relation to drugs, to this House to debate this matter. While much has been achieved, we are not winning the battle.