Gerry Reynolds
Ceist:113 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Defence if there are sufficient personnel and equipment to deal effectively with illegal drugs importation by sea. [9036/98]
Written Answers. - Illegal Drugs Importation.
Responsibility for the prevention of the illegal importation of drugs rests primarily with the Garda Síochána and the Revenue Commissioners while the main day-to-day role of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union. During routine patrols Naval Service vessels may be deployed to anti-drug smuggling operations. Naval Service vessels are specifically tasked from time to time to carry out drug search and interdiction operations in aid of the civil authorities.
Existing resources have enabled the Naval Service to respond effectively to tasks involving the prevention of illegal drugs importation. Government measures to improve law enforcement in relation to drugs, including the establishment of the joint task force, have helped to maximise the effective use of Naval Service resources in combating the illegal importation of drugs. The designation of Naval Service personnel as enforcement officers under the Criminal Justice Act, 1994, has also increased the role and effectiveness of the Naval Service in this area.
The strength of the Naval Service is kept under constant review in light of operational requirements. Eighty recruits were enlisted in the service in 1977, 72 to date this year and arrangements are in train for the enlistment of an additional 48 recruits. Seventeen apprentices are also being recruited. Twelve cadets are undergoing training with the Naval Service and in addition, nine watchkeeping officers have taken up appointment with the executive branch of the service.
The Naval Service is equipped with a total of seven vessels comprising one helicopter carrying vessel, four offshore patrol vessels and two coastal patrol vessels. Six vessels are currently operational and one is undergoing refit. In December 1997 a contract was placed for the supply of a new fishery protection patrol vessel which is due to be delivered in September 1999.