Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 December 2014
136. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will support residents who are being intimidated by drugs gangs but who are too afraid to report the fact to the Garda; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46715/14]
View answerUnder the National Drugs Strategy (2009-2016) framework a ‘Drug-Related Intimidation Programme’ has been established by the Garda National Drugs Unit in conjunction with the community based National Family Support Network (FSN) with the support of the HSE's Social Inclusion Unit.
Under the programme, nominated Garda Inspectors for every Garda Division have been designated by the Garda Commissioner to deal to the issue of drug related intimidation. These Inspectors act as a point of contact for any individuals (or for representatives of the FSN acting on individuals' behalf) in responding to any issues of drug related intimidation being experienced.
I would, therefore, encourage any persons experiencing any intimidation of the type referred to by the Deputy to utilise this confidential service and more details of this programme are available at www.fsn.ie and www.garda.ie.
