Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 15 Oct 1992

Vol. 423 No. 6

Written Answers. - Drug-Laced Tattoos.

Eric J. Byrne

Question:

27 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Justice if the allegation that drug-laced tattoos (transfers) are being supplied to school children, can be verified; if any arrests have been made in this connection; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Flynn)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that a number of anonymous letters have been circulated in recent months to schools in the Dublin area and to parents which warn of the availability and danger of drug-laced tattoos and transfers. I have of course always stressed that the role of parents, teachers and other agencies caring for young people is as important as the Garda response in solving the problem of drug abuse and I believe that they should therefore be fully informed on the dangers of drug abuse. I would not, however, condone a situation where parents and others responsible for the care of children were being unduly frightened by unsubstantiated claims about the availability of these drugs.

The Garda authorities inform me that no evidence has been found to suggest that transfers such as those referred to by the Deputy are being given to schoolchildren or other young people in this country. I would however ask the Deputy or anyone who might have evidence that this type of drug is available in this country to bring it immediately to the attention of the Garda Síochána so that the matter can receive the fullest investigation.

I might add that I am very concerned about the growing drug problem, including the danger of development of drug products specifically geared towards the young and vulnerable. In this respect I recently held a conference with senior gardaí on the drugs problem and I have given my full backing to the use of all the resources necessary to combat the scourge of drugs.

The Garda authorities are of course alert to the dangers of drug products being developed particularly to appeal to young people and their strategy for dealing with this problem involves a strong emphasis on measures directed at activities and locations where young people may be exposed to illegal drug dealing. These measures include in particular intelligence-gathering and surveillance, as well as targeting and monitoring the activities of suspects. The Garda authorities also avail of the Garda Schools Programme in appropriate circumstances to warn young people of the danger of substance abuse.

The Garda authorities are also taking all appropriate measures, in co-operation with the Customs authorities, to prevent the importation here of all illegal drugs.

The Deputy can be assured that the drugs problem is being kept under continuing review and that no effort will be spared to tackle it.