Mervyn Taylor
Ceist:52 Mr. Taylor asked the Minister for Health the further measures he is taking to combat the distribution of abusive drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Misuse of Drugs.
The Deputy will be aware that, over the past decade, a number of measures have been applied to counter drug addiction.
In more recent times, I have reviewed the legislation pertaining to controlled drugs. The list of drugs which are controlled has been significantly extended. The Misuse of Drugs Regulations, 1988, have up-dated the previous regulations relating to the possession, supply, import and export of controlled drugs. Generally speaking, the measures previously in force will continue to apply with some tightening up in particular areas, notably in relation to prescription writing and dispensing requirements.
I might add that the activities of a number of general practitioners are currently being investigated under the Misuse of Drugs Acts with a view to curbing the street availability of some of the drugs involved.
The Garda Síochána for their part are giving as much attention as possible to the prevention and control of the misuse of drugs. Permanent units of the Drug Squad operate in Dublin, Cork and Limerick. Over 3,000 members of the force have completed a special intensive training course designed to ensure that each Garda division has a substantial number of members with advanced training in the prevention and detection of drug abuse.
In addition to the foregoing, the introduction of legislation providing for the seizure and confiscation of the assets of drug traffickers is being considered. As the Deputy will appreciate this type of legislation gives rise to certain constitutional questions and has therefore been referred to the Law Reform Commission.
These steps, together with the other measures already in place, will I feel, be of great benefit in the fight against drug abuse, and I can assure the Deputy that the momentum and impetus in this area will be maintained.