I am aware of the study in question as well as other evidence of an increase in the prevalence of cocaine use, particularly through the local drugs task forces, LDTFs, and the research done by the national advisory committee on drugs, NACD. In this regard, I believe that the problem of cocaine use has to be addressed through the continued implementation of the 100 actions in the National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008 and by projects and initiatives operated through the local drugs task forces and the young people's facilities and services fund, YPFSF.
Each of the local drugs task forces has in place an action plan to tackle drug use in their area based on their own identified priorities. These projects deal with supply reduction, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation for a range of drugs, including cocaine. Most drug users engage in poly-drug use and, therefore, projects should be able to address this pattern of usage rather than concentrating on one drug to the exclusion of others.
Earlier this year, I visited a number of local drugs task force areas and discussed with community representatives and others the nature of the drug problem in their areas, including the issue of cocaine. In this context, I asked the national drugs strategy team to develop proposals to help address this issue at a local level. It has recently submitted its proposals to me, which I am currently examining.
Finally, I assure the Deputy that I continue to keep the issue of cocaine use under review. In this regard, as the Deputy may be aware, a mid-term review of the national drugs strategy is currently ongoing which will enable priorities for further action to be identified and a re-focusing of the strategy, if necessary. The need to amend the strategy to reflect changing patterns of drug use will be considered in this context.
