The Progressive Democrats' spokeswoman on justice, Ms Liz O'Donnell, dismissed suggestions that "media hype" on crime was contributing to public fear. It showed a misunderstanding of the situation, she said, adding that the reality as experienced by Irish citizens was frightening.

Ms O'Donnell was speaking during resumed debate on the Fianna Fail private members' Misuse of Drugs Bill.

Mr Denis Foley (FF, Kerry North) said that the major increase in the availability of ecstasy was due to its low cost, over production abroad and the emergence of the "rave" disco scene. The closure by gardai of "rave" premises in Dublin had led to those involved moving to locations in the provinces.