asked the Minister for Health if he will state the composition and programme of the working party to be set up on drug taking.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Working Party on Drug Abuse.
111.
I am not at present in a position to announce the names of the persons who will comprise the working party to advise me on the problem of drug abuse but I expect to be in a position to do so, shortly.
The group will comprise persons whose special knowledge and experience, especially in relation to youth problems, would be of benefit in the investigation of the matter. They will include representatives of the Departments of Health and Education, the Garda, the local health authority psychiatric service, a general medical practitioner, a medical officer concerned with the health of university students and a social worker. There will also be student representation.
The working party will, of course, be free to consult other persons who may be in a position to assist them in their investigations. The group will examine the extent of drug abuse and advise me on the steps which might be taken to deal with the problem, including measures to discourage young persons from starting the use of drugs, such as publicity, education and example. It will also advise on the action it considers necessary to assist in the rehabilitation of persons who have acquired the drug habit. The specific programme of the working party will, however, be a matter for determination by that body.