Colette Kelleher (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I congratulate the Minister of State on introducing this enlightened legislation which represents decency, humanity and a realistic response to those with an addiction. I also congratulate Senator Aodhán Ó Ríordáin on talking about this issue by encouraging the Anna Liffey project and others at a time when it was not popular to do so. It is wonderful to see that bravery and leadership bearing fruit today. As I said, the legislation represents dignity and respect and, above all, will provide for the provision of health care for people with addictions. We are talking about some mother’s son or daughter, people with names, as Senator Aodhán Ó Ríordáin said. Those of us who have worked in the area knew the names. They were not considered to be human detritus or litter or a nuisance but people who deserved respect. Establishing injecting centres is a way of recognising their humanity and decency. I understand what Senator Keith Swanick says about making sure all stakeholders are consulted, but from my experience in Cork of trying to open a wet centre where people could have a drink – Senator Colm Burke is shaking his head because he recognises the scars on all of our backs – I would not want to overegg that pudding. The barriers in the way of these rightminded, proper interventions can often be extensive and extreme. We need to get the balance right and, above all, the person with the addictions and his or her family need to be kept to the fore.

I look forward to the enactment of the legislation. I would also like to think people with addictions in Cork city and country towns will have access to such humanity and dignity and that we will not sit on our hands in that respect. I congratulate the Minister of State and Senator Aodhán Ó Ríordáin. This is a good day for people who are often not named or remembered.