COUNCIL leader Meryl Gravell has stood by her comments on legalising drugs, declaring she "has no regrets".

In last week's Star, Councillor Gravell spoke out about Llanelli's drug problem and called for an open debate on a way to tackle the issue.

Her comments sparked a strong reaction, with many people phoning, writing and e-mailing to air their views. Many have heavily criticised the suggestion, but there has also been approval and support.

The Trimsaran grandmother, who said that prohibition was not working in the town and that legalisation could be the answer, said she was glad people were talking about the issue.

"After months of many people brushing it under the carpet they are now finally discussing it," she said. "I'm glad I took that stand — I have never been a person to shy away from what needed to be said.

"Often politicians are too afraid and want to say the right thing and be liked, but it needed to be put out there — people need to start focusing on the problem instead of looking the other way.

"I have no regrets at all — there have been far too many drug deaths in Llanelli for us to simply ignore it.

"Something needs to be done and I'm pleased that people are talking about a problem that is taking away lives in Llanelli.

"Drugs have destroyed many peoples' lives and torn families apart, if me speaking out can lead to any kind of change which would save one person from that pain and destruction, it is worth it."

The leader of Carmarthenshire Council wants the debate to continue.

"I think politicians need to be talking about this in Parliament," she said.

"I would urge people — regardless of if they agree with my personal views — to at least recognise that there's a problem and talk about what we can do to fix it. I will bow down to anyone that has a stronger argument than me, we just need to find a solution."

The councillor wanted to make it clear she did not condone using drugs, nor think that they should be freely available to all. She continued: "But by having legalised control, it would stop drug dealers profiting, it would stop addicts committing crimes to feed their habits, it would give addicts access to support and services and be safer for them."

She added she would put more of her time into helping drug agencies in the town.

"There are drop-in centres for people to go to but nothing that is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week," she said. "I'm going to be dedicating as much of my time as possible to help solve this issue.

"I am also looking at organising charity events to raise money for more support for Llanelli residents affected by drugs."