I am informed by the Garda authorities that the K district drug unit covers the Cabra, Finglas and Blanchardstown areas and that the current personnel strength of the K district drug unit is nine, all ranks. I am further informed that the current personnel strength, all ranks, of Cabra Garda station as at 22 March 2004 is 65.
The approximate population of the K district is as follows:
Station
|
Population
|
Blanchardstown
|
80,000
|
Finglas
|
20,000
|
Cabra
|
20,000
|
Garda management in the K district state that there is no apparent increase in the drug problem in the area and are satisfied that the current strength of the K district drug unit is adequate to address the drugs issues there.
All gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to deal with drug related matters as they arise. I am assured by the Garda authorities that the situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Cabra Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.