Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 7

Written Answers. - Drug-Related Crime.

Joe Higgins

Question:

48 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to a recent Garda report showing that a major portion of crime in Dublin is related to heroin addiction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17068/97]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I consider that the Garda report on illicit drug use and related criminal activity in the Dublin metropolitan area is an invaluable piece of research providing information about the link between crime and drugs in Dublin. Information and research are essential to the formation and execution of effective crime policy.

The research shows the strong links between drugs and crime and demonstrates that the fight against drug abuse must be relentless. The report shows that the principle drug abused is heroin and 77 per cent of heroin abusers have some form of criminal record. Forty-three per cent of indictable crimes are committed by hard drug abusers. The majority of drug abusers had tried drugs out of curiosity and had a poor understanding of the effects of drug use.

The report provides an overall picture of the various aspects of the drug problem — poor education, initiation into drug abuse, treatment problems and involvement in crime. Effective action against drugs, including heroin, requires concerted action by all the relevant authorities. This confirms the Government's view that interagency co-operation in the areas of research, treatment and law enforcement are essential.

I consider that the document provides reliable information which will be of assistance to decision makers. It is envisaged that the study will be repeated at future dates to determine the trends and examine the effectiveness of strategies adopted by various agencies.

The Deputy can be assured of my total commitment to dealing with the drug problem.