New minister to address drug conference

Former Fianna Fáil backbencher Pat Carey will hold his first engagement as a junior Government minister today.

The Dublin North East TD was appointed Minister of State for Drugs Strategy and Community Affairs last week.

He is due to speak at a conference this morning on cocaine use organised by the National Drugs Strategy Team.

The Cocaine Response – Sharing Good Practice event will share national and international thinking on drug rehab and treatment methods.

A former primary teacher, Mr Carey is heavily involved in anti-drug initiatives in northside Dublin communities.

Minister Pat Carey on the Government response to increases in cocaine use.