Peter Barry
Question:160 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí assigned to the drugs squad in Cork city; the plans, if any, she has to increase its strength; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3227/95]
Written Answers. - Cork Drugs Squad.
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda manpower, that the current strength of the drugs unit in Cork city is 15.
While specialist drugs units have a valuable contribution to make, there is a limit to the extent to which available resources ought to be allocated to them. A more effective response is to provide for specialised anti-drug training of a much greater number of members of the force who use that specialised training while also carrying out other police duties.
In line with this policy, over 50 gardaí from the Cork east division, which includes Cork city, have completed a specialised course in drug-law enforcement.As part of this course, they spend one month with the drugs unit where they gain operational experience.
The Garda authorities consider that the drugs unit is operating effectively and they have no plans at present to increase the strength of the unit. However, the position is kept under continuing review by the Garda authorities.