Vol. 434 No. 6
40 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Justice if her attention has been drawn to the concern among local residents and traders in Ballyfermot, Dublin 10, at the level of drug dealing in the area; and the additional resources, if any, she will make available to the Garda authorities to tackle this problem.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the problem of drug abuse in the Ballyfermot area, as elsewhere in Dublin and the rest of the country, is monitored very closely by them and all appropriate steps are taken to investigate any illegal drug dealing or drug abuse and to bring the perpetrators to justice. In this respect all complaints received from local residents and traders are fully investigated.
As the Deputy will be aware, all members of the Garda Síochána deal with law enforcement aspects of drug misuse within their operational area. In addition, a specialist drug unit is in operation in the Ballyfermot area. It works in close co-operation with other specialist units and the Garda Drug Squad at Harcourt Square, as and when required. Other measures taken by the Garda include the targeting and monitoring of the activities of suspects. I am informed by the Garda authorities that patrols in the area have recently been increased, following consultations with local interests.
The Garda authorities have informed me that the situation in the area will continue to be monitored by them and whatever further action that may be required to deal with problems in the area will be taken.
