Vol. 496 No. 2
157 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to high levels of drug dealing at a location (details supplied) in Dublin 8; if he will allocate additional Garda resources to tackle this problem; if he will install close circuit television facilities to discourage crime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22283/98]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that they have become aware, in recent weeks, of the increased presence of known drug abusers in the area. The Garda believe that the increase is as a direct result of intensive Garda activity under Operation Dóchas in neighbouring areas.
The Garda authorities have informed me that when the problem came to their attention, they immediately targeted the area by introducing Operation Cleanstreet, which has resulted in at least ten detections under section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Acts, that is, possession of controlled drugs for unlawful sale or supply since 18 September 1998. The Garda authorities have assured me that the area will continue to be monitored by local units and the Garda national drugs unit.
I am informed by the Garda that there is no provision for the installation of a CCTV system in this area at this time.
