Cecilia Keaveney (Fianna Fail)

It will be a sad day if we cannot speak about the general development of youth councils.

I call for a debate on the drugs problem at the earliest possible opportunity, preferably as soon as there is a gap in the schedule. Last week an inquest heard about the role of cocaine in a high profile death. In my time as Chairman the then Joint Committee on Arts, Sport, Tourism, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs completed a number of reports. In 2004 we produced a report on the effectiveness of investment in sport and the arts as a deterrent against substance abuse among the youth. In July 2005 we completed a report on the treatment of cocaine addiction, with particular reference to the Irish experience. The following year we produced a report on the inclusion of alcohol in a national substance misuse strategy, while in 2007 a specific report was compiled on drug abuse in Ireland, with particular reference to the situation in Waterford. I ask that we use these four reports to open a debate on drug use and misuse. While I do not wish to dance on anyone's grave, people are more alert to issues when celebrities are involved. For something good to emerge from what was a tragic event, people must explore the issues surrounding drugs and the implications of drug use. The joint committee initially considered giving its report on cocaine the title, "What Everyone Needs to Know About Cocaine". If a debate on the issue of drugs is initiated in response to the death of a high profile figure, at least the tragedy will have some value.