Hugh Byrne
Question:44 Mr. H. Byrne asked the Minister for Justice the plans, if any, she has to prevent the sale of illegal drugs on licensed premises. [9733/96]
Written Answers. - Illegal Drugs.
Last year I obtained Government approval for a series of organisational, financial, operational and legislative measures to deal with the drug problem. A number of those measures have been implemented and others are in the process of being implemented.
In addition to those measures which are directed at the drugs problem in general I have in mind more specific measures aimed at licensed premises, including dance halls, where drug sales are suspected. One such measure, which concerns Garda powers of entry to premises where a public dance hall licence is in force, is the subject of an amendment tabled by me to the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Bill, 1996, which is currently before the House. My further proposals in this area will be announced in the usual way in due course.