Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 March 2012
165 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding Garda Operation Boa; the amount of drugs seized to date; the number of persons arrested and charged to date; if this operation is still active; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15973/12]
View answerI am informed by the Garda authorities that the initiative referred to was implemented under Operation ‘Clean-street', which is an initiative undertaken by the Garda National Drugs Unit, in conjunction with District and Divisional Garda Management, to target individuals involved in on-street sale and supply of drugs in the community.
This phase of the operation, which took place in the Coolock Garda District, resulted in the arrest of 40 persons who have been charged with over 120 offences contrary to Section 15, Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977/1984, relating to the sale and supply of drugs, primarily heroin and cocaine and are currently before the courts. Drugs, cash and ammunition were also seized during searches conducted during the arrest phase of this initiative.
The monetary value of drugs seized during this initiative would be small, with street-deals, worth between €20-€80, being purchased by undercover officers. While this operation has now concluded, the targeting of the on-street sale, supply and distribution of drugs remains ongoing in conjunction with District and Divisional Officers.
166 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on Garda Operation Quest; the number of persons arrested and charged to date; the number of successful convictions secured to date; if this operation is still active; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15974/12]
View answerI have requested a report from the Garda authorities in relation to the matter referred to by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy again when the report is to hand.
