Vol. 509 No. 1
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Dáil Éireann debate - Tuesday, 12 Oct 1999
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Written Answers. - Garda Deployment.
305 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí assigned to drug detection in County Kildare; if he has satisfied himself that this number is adequate for the surveillance and detection needed to apprehend offenders in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19864/99]
I am informed by the Garda Síochána that the strength of the detective unit in Naas District is two sergeants and ten gardaí. In addition, one sergeant and two gardaí are assigned to the anti-crime-drug unit, in this district. In the Kildare district there are four gardaí in the detective unit and one sergeant and two gardaí are assigned to the anti-crime-drug unit in this district. All of these members of the Garda Síochána are assigned not only to crime enquiries but can also be assigned to drug detection.
In addition, all members of the Garda Síochána in County Kildare have a responsibility for, and are tasked with, the enforcement of drugs legislation.
The Garda national drugs unit has a national remit and the primary focus of its activities is aimed towards the national and international aspects of drug trafficking. This unit also supports, through training, joint operations and advice, the divisional drug units operating at a local level throughout the country.
The Garda authorities have informed me that the current resources employed for the surveillance and detection of illegal drug activity, in County Kildare, are, in their view, sufficient to meet the needs of the area, at the present time.
