Pubdate: Mon, 18 Oct 1999 Source: Examiner, The (Ireland) Copyright: Examiner Publications Ltd, 1999 Contact: http://www.examiner.ie/ Author: Brian Crowley WE MUST NOT GO SOFT ON HARD DRUGS There has been much comment in recent weeks about the fact that Ecstasy as a drug is becoming increasingly normal in Irish society. I find this contention difficult to support, particularly in light of the fact that there have already been 20 deaths from the use of Ecstasy in Ireland in recent years. Let us be clear about one thing, the long term effects from the use of Ecstasy are still very much unknown. Ecstasy, as a drug, is certainly a cause for depression but it may also cause memory impairment as well as other illnesses. I would not support the legalisation of Ecstasy, Cannabis or other synthetic drugs such as LSD. The UN Convention against the illicit traffic of narcotic drugs prohibits the use, manufacture and distribution of Ecstasy, LSD and Amphetamines and this policy position must be fully upheld. We cannot and must not support the creation of a drugs culture in our society by legally permitting the use of soft and synthetic drugs. It is very important that we continue to support funding the young people’s facilities and services fund which targets the development of youth and recreational facilities in disadvantaged areas in Ireland.I fully support the provisions of our criminal justice legislation which ensures that mandatory prison sentences will be given for persons who are caught in possession of controlled drugs value in excess of pounds 10,000. Brian Crowley MEP, Bandon, Co Cork. - --- MAP posted-by: Derek Rea