Taoiseach totally opposed to legalising drugs

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern yesterday stressed he was “totally and fundamentally” opposed to legalising drugs in this country.

Dismissing calls for such legislation, he also said the question would not be looked at while he was Taoiseach. When asked about a call by broadcaster Gay Byrne that the possibility of legalising drugs should be looked at and debated, Mr Ahern said Mr Byrne was entitled to his opinion.

The Taoiseach was speaking to reporters during a visit to Kerry on a day when the removal was taking place of Rowland Blennerhassett, aged 20, who is understood to have died after taking cocaine at a party in Tralee.