asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the assistance, if any, Ireland is lending in the wake of President Barco's plea for assistance against Colombian cocaine cartels; and, in view of this county's vulnerability in this matter, if he will make a statement on his position.
Written Answers. - Colombian Cocaine Cartels.
30.
Along with our partners in the Twelve, we support the measures being taken by the Colombian Government against the drug cartels. We recognise the serious menace of drugs to the international community. The Twelve will, shortly establish a drugs co-ordination committee with a nominated co-ordinator from each of the member states to deal with, amongst other things the question of assistance to the drug producing countries for product substitution and to examine the question of technical assistance to persons or institutions involved in the war against drugs. A coordinated approach will greatly strengthen the ability of the Twelve to deal with the problems caused by drug trafficking and drug abuse.