Written Answers. - Drug Addiction. – Dáil Éireann (28th Dáil) – Tuesday, 20 Jun 2000

Written Answers. - Drug Addiction.

Question:
240 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost incurred by the Garda and other agencies under the aegis of his Department because of drug addiction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17357/00]

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

Statistics are not held in a form which would allow for the compilation of the information sought by the Deputy and there would be no precise basis on which such information could be calculated.

I can tell the Deputy, however, that while, obviously, not all crime is drug related, it is clear that drug related crime is a major element of the factors contributing to the cost of crime. Garda research has indicated that approximately 66% of detected crime in the Dublin metropolitan area is drug related. While it would be unsafe to apply this figure outside the Dublin area, it nevertheless gives an indication of the extent of drug related crime.

It should also be noted that costs in relation to drug addiction are also borne by other Departments and agencies such as the Department of Health and Children and the Department of Education and Science.

Dáil Éireann debate - Tuesday, 20 Jun 2000