asked the Minister for Finance the measures he proposes to introduce to reduce the smuggling of drugs through our ports; and if he is prepared to grant full powers of arrest to the customers officers.
Written Answers. - Drugs Smuggling.
833.
The Revenue Commissioners state that the most up-to-date drug identification equipment available has been issued to customs staff at ports, airports and at land frontier crossings. Increasing numbers of customs officers have been receiving specialised drug training at the Customs and Excise Training Centre and training officers have visited various stations on an on-going basis to instruct local staff. Two specialist officers have recently been assigned to liaison duties with Garda Authorities and for the development of information and intelligence and to co-ordinate joint actions on both a national and international basis. The effectiveness of these measures will be kept under constant review.
Customs officers have powers of arrest for drug smuggling under the Customs Consolidation Act, 1876. However, in practice persons detected by customs are normally handed over to the Garda who institute proceedings under the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977.
834.
asked the Minister for Finance if he will give details of any proposals he may have to provide a drug sniffing dog at Rosslare Harbour customs and excise post, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The Revenue Commissioners are examining the question of providing drug detector dogs for customs purposes. This involves inquiries about the availability of dogs and training of dogs and handlers. Training facilities are not available in this country.
In the past customs have availed of the services of a Garda drug detector dog when necessary.