Dublin’s north inner city was neglected and badly served by the last government. There are significant social challenges like housing, crime, education and employment that must be addressed by the new Government. To highlight the issues in the area and gain support for solutions I recently brought Michéal Martin TD, leader of Fianna Fáil and Jim O’Callaghan TD, Fianna Fáil spokesperson for Justice to meet with local community groups. The Community leaders welcomed Fianna Fáil’s interest in the area and constructive approach to addressing the problems.

New National Drugs Strategy
Minister for Drugs Jennifer Murnane O’Connor recently updated me in Seanad Eireann on the new national drugs strategy. Her new strategy is designed to respond to the significant changes in drug-use patterns in Ireland and to ensure equitable access to services across the country. The draft strategy proposes five strategic


