asked the Minister for Justice if he is satisfied with security in the Border areas in relation to the importation of drugs from the Six Counties.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cross-Border Drug Importation.
13.
(Limerick East): The enforcement of controls on the importation of any goods or articles, including drugs, is primarily a matter for the Revenue Commissioners whose officers maintain a close liaison with the Garda Síochána in relation to the unlawful importation of drugs.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that they have no evidence to suggest that drugs are being illegally imported from the North to any significant extent.
Does the Minister feel that the provision of a Customs drugs squad as a back-up service to the Garda squad would be helpful in the Border areas in order to combat the importation of drugs which are coming across the Border?
(Limerick East): It is the practice for the Revenue Commissioners to put discovered smugglers of controlled drugs in the charge of members of the Garda Síochána for any further action. The Garda have had specific training in the Border divisions. For example, 22 superintendents, 17 inspectors, 18 sergeants and 62 gardaí in the Border divisions have had particular training in anti-drugs work designed to ensure that participants would be fully informed of the various aspects of drug abuse.
Is the Minister aware that there are 700 Customs and Excise officers available? Is he also aware that using these officers as a back-up service for the Garda squad would be an ideal arrangement to intercept drugs at the point of import? Because very few drugs are grown in this country the majority have to be imported and must come through the areas controlled by these officers. Since this is an ideal method, would he take another look at his policy and recognise the fact that these officers could help cut down on the availability of drugs here? Would he ask his Government to give a clear policy commitment that they will involve the Customs and Excise officers in this area? If he does that he will see that great benefit will come from it.
(Limerick East): I have heard some more of the Deputy's waffle. There is a clear Government commitment on the drugs problem. I have said that the enforcement of controls on the importation of any goods or articles, including drugs, is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners. I cannot see why the Deputy would call on me to make it a matter for the Revenue Commissioners when I have already said that it is a matter for them. I have also said that the Garda authorities have no evidence to suggest that drugs are being illegally imported from the North to any significant extent. That is what the question is about.