asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that the legislation relating to the misuse of drugs is adequate to cope with the widespread increasing problem of drug abuse in this country; and, if not, why.
21.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drug Abuse.
20.
asked the Minister for Health if he will state, in relation to the Misuse of Drugs Act, when he proposes to make an Order bringing it into operation; and if he is satisfied that the minimum statutory penalties for drug peddling are adequate.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 21 together.
I accept that there is a need to improve the position in relation to the prevention and control of drug abuse and illicit traffic in drugs. The Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977, was passed by the Oireachtas for this purpose.
Preparation of regulations which will enable the Act to be brought fully into operation is at an advanced stage and I intend to make the regulations and the commencement order for various provisions of the Act in the next month or so.
So far as peddling of drugs is concerned the Act makes provision for penalties of up to a £3,000 fine or 14 years' imprisonment, or both, at the discretion of the court. These would seem to be sufficiently penal to procure the objective.
I should say also that there is no evidence available to me to justify Deputy Byrne's contention that there is a widespread increasing problem of drug abuse in this country.
The Minister mentioned the 1977 Health Act. Does he intent to bring in the Act in full or only in part?
In full—the 1977 drugs legislation?
Yes, does the Minister intend to implement that in full?
Yes, as soon as possible. The regulations are at a very advanced stage right across the board and it is hoped to make them within one or two months at the outside.
In view of the fact that the Minister has accepted that there is a widespread increasing drug abuse problem will the Minister be providing improved facilities for the treatment of drug abusers?
I hope we will improve them all the time.
When an Act is passed does it always mean that the regulations must be brought in, as in this case?
No, some Acts of Parliament contain a statement that they will be brought into operation by order. That gives the Minister an opportunity to make all the necessary advance preparations. This is one piece of legislation that comes into operation by order. Different parts of it come into operation by way of different orders.
In view of the urgency, what is the reason for the delay?
I agree that the delay may appear excessive but what is involved is a complicated and technical type of question. A wide number of organisations and bodies have to be consulted but the proceedings are now at an advanced stage and should be completed soon.
I shall be inquiring again in two months' time.