asked the Minister for Justice how many gardaí are serving on the drug squad; how many have training in dealing with the problems of drug addiction; and whether the superior officer in the squad, or the superintendent who has charge of it, has any such training.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Drug Squad.
51.
As I stated in my reply to a question on this subject on Thursday last, 13th November, there are four members of the gardaí engaged whole time in work relating to drugs. Other members assist as required. The members of the force who are engaged whole time on the work have made a special study of the problems of drug addiction in so far as they relate to the discharge of their police duties and have, in addition, acquired considerable practical experience in the detection of offences involving drugs. They are not concerned with any other aspects of the problems of drug addiction, and I must again emphasise to the House that the problems of drug addiction are not primarily the concern of the Garda Síochána. They are social and medical problems.
Does the Minister think that four members of the Garda Síochána are in any way sufficient to deal with the massive increase in drug-taking, drug-addiction and drug-peddling in the city of Dublin at the moment?
The question of detection of any offence, including any legal offence in connection with drugs, is a matter for every member of the Garda Síochána. The question as to whether four gardaí are sufficient to have on this work is under examination at the present time.
In this respect the Minister will agree that he has admitted that the members of the Garda have no special training?
I have not said so. They have got special training.
Where?
Here.
Are any members of the gardaí trained in this matter resident outside the greater Dublin area in view of the fact that drug addiction and abuse are not necessarily confined to the greater Dublin area?
No, at this point in time; but my information is that the main problem is, for all practical purposes, here in Dublin.
I suggest that the Minister for Justice should check some of the hospital records and the psychiatric admissions in Cork city.
Yes, but hospitals and the treatment of these people are questions for the Minister for Health.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.
I have only two others. May I finish?
Does the House agree to finish the Justice questions?
Agreed.