Vol. 487 No. 3
276 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of trained sniffer dogs for use against drug traffickers in service with the gardaí and customs; and the plans, if any, to extend the number. [4080/98]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are currently four dogs trained in drugs detection attached to the Garda dog unit which is based at Kilmainham Garda Station. Although based in Kilmainham, the Garda dog unit is, of course, a national unit.
I am further informed that the strength and structure of the Garda dog unit is currently under review by the Garda authorities.
I understand that customs have six dogs trained in drugs detection. They are based in Dublin Airport, Dublin Port, Rosslare, Cork, Shannon and Sligo. However, they can be deployed to other areas as the need arises. These dogs are used by customs officers in searches of premises, transport vehicles and vessels (cars, trucks, buses, yachts, ships and aircraft), passengers and freight cargo. I understand that customs are constantly evaluating the need for sniffer dogs.
