I am informed by the Garda authorities that international co-operation between law enforcement agencies is achieved in a number of ways, including the exchange of strategic and operational intelligence on the activities and modus operandi of criminal networks and organisations involved in the international trafficking of controlled drugs and in drug distribution. International co-operation is also achieved by the conduct of investigations within the State at the request of foreign law enforcement agencies and by requesting the assistance of other jurisdictions in conducting investigations on behalf of the Irish State, in accordance with legislation governing mutual assistance in criminal matters.
In order to facilitate co-operation between law enforcement agencies, the Garda Síochána has assigned liaison officers to the UK, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Europol and Interpol. In addition, the Garda Síochána has made very valuable use of EU funded programmes to organise seminars aimed at enhancing co-operation between law enforcement agencies throughout the European Union. Co-operation with a number of international law enforcement agencies has yielded tangible results, as exemplified by a number of recent successes, and I am satisfied that the Garda Síochána is meeting its responsibilities in terms of international co-operation in the fight against drugs.