The problem of drug misuse remains one of the most complex social problems that we face. Our national response to the problem is set out in the National Drugs Strategy for the period 2009-2016. The Strategy adopts a comprehensive and pillar based approach to the issue, involving the implementation of a wide range of measures across the five pillars of drug supply reduction, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and research. The Strategy is being led out under the stewardship of my colleague Minister of State at the Department of Health Mr. Alex White T.D., who under this remit liaises and meets with Ministerial colleagues, Departments and agencies as is required. The Deputy will appreciate that this is the appropriate forum for Departmental contacts of the kind which he mentions.
Under our institutional arrangements, the implementation of the Strategy is monitored by the Oversight Forum on Drugs. This Forum, which is chaired by Minister of State White, is made up of representatives of both State and non-governmental bodies, including the Departments of Health and Education and Skills and my own Department, reflecting the ongoing multi-agency and multi-sectoral approach in tackling this issue. I can assure the Deputy that my Department and its agencies continue to actively participate in all of the structures in place under the Strategy and will continue with the ongoing implementation of all actions assigned to the criminal justice sector under that Strategy.
With regard to drug law enforcement, I can assure the Deputy that I meet on a regular basis with the Garda Commissioner concerning law enforcement matters. Drug law enforcement remains a key priority area for the Government and for An Garda Síochána. This is clearly reflected in An Garda Síochána's Policing Plan for 2013 which highlights a strong focus in combating serious crime in all its forms, in particular organised crime and its close links with drug trafficking. Furthermore, An Garda Síochána is also involved in a range of collaborative work involving community interests including, for example, the work of the local and regional Drugs Task Forces, the work of the Joint Policing Committees and community initiatives such as the work being undertaken, in partnership with the Family Support Network organisation, in tackling the problem of intimidation associated with drug related debts.
Finally, with regard to the issue of additional drug units within Garda Divisions, this is an operational matter for the Garda Commissioner.
