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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Feb 1990

Vol. 396 No. 3

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Heroin Supply.

Tony Gregory

Question:

30 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the supply of heroin is again on the increase in Dublin city; if he will give details of the numbers of gardaí in the various drug units in the city; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The Garda authorities inform me that they have no evidence of an increase in the supply of heroin in Dublin city.

The current strength of the Central Drug Unit in Harcourt Square is 29 members. In addition, there are ten members in local units based at Store Street, Santry and Crumlin stations who are engaged full-time on anti-drugs work. More than 3,200 other members of the force have been trained in anti-drugs work to equip them to deal with aspects of the drug problem which they may encounter in the course of their duties.

The Garda authorities have assured me that the situation regarding the supply of heroin is continually and carefully monitored and if there are any indications that it is increasing, appropriate countermeasures will be taken.

Is the Minister prepared to accept that the figure of 29 members engaged full-time in the drugs squad on anti-drugs work is an increase on the number in the past?

The number varies——

Does it represent a decrease?

It does not, it varies from time to time. It is now accepted that rather than have a specific number of members in the drugs squad, it is preferable to have the greatest number possible trained in anti-drugs work. More than 3,200 members of the force have undergone specialist training to equip them to deal with aspects of drug abuse, to make them aware of preventive measures and of the special skills needed in investigations. The present number is the one required by the Garda authorities which they consider to be the appropriate level.

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