Vol. 561 No. 2
134 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when it is intended to establish the early warning system, involving all key agencies, to track the potential spread of heroin into new areas in regard to the commitment given in An Agreed Programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3679/03]
As the Deputy is aware, my Department's role is to co-ordinate the implementation of the national drugs strategy 2001-08. Following the commitment in the programme for Government, my officials have held discussions with a range of Departments and agencies involved in tackling drugs. It is planned that the early warning sub-committee of the national advisory committee on drugs, which contains membership from a range of relevant Departments and agencies, including my Department, will fulfil the role outlined in the programme for Government. The sub-committee is due to meet in March, when it will consider how best to put the system in place.
