Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 July 2016
99. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the withdrawal of the drugs sniffer dog from Ireland West Airport, Knock; the reason no dog is available for the entire Border, midlands and west region; when a replacement dog will be provided for the airport and a separate dog for the Border, midlands and west region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22954/16]
View answerI am advised by Revenue that their Customs Service currently deploys seventeen detector dog teams, nine of which have drug detection capabilities. I am advised by Revenue that as part of its risk focused approach to combatting illegal drugs importations, all ports and airports are monitored and evaluated from the point of view of potential for smuggling. Resources are deployed to areas of highest risk. Employment strength is augmented with additional personnel and resources as the need arises.
Revenue is satisfied that the total number of dog units is sufficient for current day-to-day operations but this is kept under constant review.
