Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 June 2014
13. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence his views regarding compulsory random drug testing of Defence Forces personnel; and his plans to amend the penalty of dismissal which has been considered disproportionate, particularly in relation to problems with the reliability of the test. [25796/14]
View answerIn October 2002 the Defence Forces introduced a Compulsory Random Drug Testing programme. The primary objective of Compulsory Random Drug Testing is deterrence. The Defence Forces policy on drug and substance abuse or misuse is based on the premise that unlawful possession, supply or use of a controlled drug is incompatible with membership of the Defence Forces. Drug and substance abuse, because of its insidious nature, and because of the possible residual effects on the abuser, is particularly dangerous in the military environment and incompatible with military life. Military personnel are entrusted with the responsibility of using firearms and other lethal equipment. Drug misuse has serious implications for the safety of members of the public as well as fellow soldiers. The nature of military service, therefore, requires that military personnel are free from the presence or influence of any controlled drug or substance. All members of the Defence Forces are aware that they are liable for testing. Any member who tests positive is liable to be removed from the Defence Forces.
The compulsory random drug testing process focuses on providing a credible and robust deterrent. The random nature of testing ensures that there is a fair system of monitoring members of the Defence Forces and involves the provision of a urine sample. Any sample that initially tests unclear is sent to accredited drug testing laboratories for more detailed analysis. I am advised by the military authorities that there are no issues with regard to the reliability of the testing.
Each case involving a positive drug test is individually considered on its merits. An effective appeals mechanism is in place. Only in appropriate circumstances is an administrative discharge decided upon. Because of the Defence Forces' duty of care not just to its members but also to the wider public it is not considered that the administrative discharge in appropriate cases is excessive and there are no plans to amend this option.
