asked the Minister for Justice the number of drug trafficking offences at Rosslare Harbour, County Wexford, during the years 1982, 1983 and 1984.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drug Trafficking Offences.
9.
(Limerick East): The number of drug trafficking offences detected at Rosslare Harbour during the years 1982, 1983 and 1984 was two, two and one respectively.
Is the Minister satisfied with the level of staffing at Rosslare in relation to drug offences?
(Limerick East): One aspect of staffing would be a matter for the Minister for Finance in so far as it involves customs officers and Revenue people. If the Deputy is referring to Garda staffing levels in County Wexford and Rosslare, I am satisfied that they are adequate.
Is the Minister aware that the present level of staffing is so low that there is only one garda on duty per carrier on some occasions? Random checks could allow consignments of drugs to slip through, as seems to be the case.
(Limerick East): I am not so aware.
The Minister is aware now.
Has the Minister had discussions with the Minister for Finance about the possibility of having a special squad of customs and excise officers to investigate drug sumggling?
That is a separate question.
The Minister told us earlier that he had discussions with the Minister for Health about Dundrum. Will he have discussions with the Minister for Finance to ensure that no drugs got into this country which can be kept out?
(Limerick East): The Deputy is probably aware that a ministerial task force of Ministers of State at Departments with an interest in this matter met and examined all aspects of the problem and reported. Many of their recommendations are now being put into effect. Discussions took place at that time between the Departments of Justice, Health, and Finance and so on. If the Deputy has any point to suggest, I am willing to discuss anything with my Cabinet colleagues with a view to keeping drugs out of the country.