asked the Minister for Justice the special steps he has taken arising from the recent appearance of Chinese heroin in this country.
Written Answers. - Drug Problem.
121.
As I have said on a previous occasion I do not feel free to disclose information on the measures being taken by the Garda to deal with specific drugs. However, I can assure the House that the Garda are giving close and constant attention to the enforcement of all aspects of the law in relation to drugs. As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the strength of the Garda Drug Squad was recently doubled and further increases in strength are proposed.
Since 1st January, 1972, a total of 16 persons have been charged with offences relating to heroin.
122.
asked the Minister for Justice the strength of the drug squad and their areas of operation; and if he will indicate the nature of their special training and equipment.
What is popularly known as the Garda Drug Squad consists of those members of the force who are engaged fulltime in the detection of drug offences. They operate in Dublin and the adjoining counties. In addition, of course, members of the force stationed outside Dublin deal with drug abuse in the ordinary course of duty and a number of them have received special training in this work.
The Drug Squad were recently increased by 7 detective gardaí to their present strength of one detective sergeant and 14 detective gardaí. The strength will be further increased over the next few months.
As I have already stated in reply to questions on this subject, I am not prepared, for obvious reasons, to disclose details about the training or equipment available to members engaged on this work. The Commissioner is satisfied that both training and equipment are adequate.