Vol. 450 No. 6
37 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Justice the estimated level of crime and vandalism associated with substance abuse; her views on whether research should be actively undertaken in this area to determine the actual association; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5495/95]
While it is clear that substance abuse is a factor in certain types of crime and vandalism, there are no figures available quantifying the actual number of offences in which substance abuse is a factor. It should be borne in mind that it is not always possible to state, with any degree of accuracy, the extent to which substance abuse may be a factor in any particular case. By definition, the relationship between crime and substance abuse, while clearly established, is difficult to quantify in precise terms.
The Garda Research Unit was recently established to undertake practical and mission-orientated research of relevance to a modern police force and is currently carrying out a programme of research projects. When this initial programme is completed, the question of having research undertaken in this area will be raised by my Department with the Garda Research Advisory Committee, which has been set up to oversee the work of the unit.
