Home > Dail Eireann debate. Written answer 72 - Garda resources [24750/11]

[Oireachtas] Dail Eireann debate. Written answer 72 - Garda resources [24750/11]. (20 Sep 2011)

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72. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which the full requirements of backup facilities are available to the Garda to combat the drug problem; if the Minister is satisfied that such requirements are adequately met; if he proposes any enhancement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24750/11]  

Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Alan Shatter): I understand the Deputy’s question to relate to the Garda resources that are made available to the combatting of drug misuse.
 
The Garda Síochána Policing Plan, 2011 sets out the commitment of An Garda Síochána to pro-actively target groups and individuals engaged in organised criminal activities including drug trafficking.
 
I am informed by the Garda authorities that a multi-agency approach has been, and continues to be used, whereby National Units from National Support Service work together to combat serious crime, including those involved in the trafficking, importation, sale and supply of illegal drugs.
 
These Units such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Criminal Assets Bureau, the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation and the Garda Technical Bureau are also supported by the Security and Intelligence Section who assist with intelligence briefings and timely information.
 
In addition, An Garda Síochána continue to develop and implement operations and strategies aimed at targeting, dismantling and disrupting criminal networks.
 
This integrated approach adopts best practice in implementing a co-ordinated use of Garda resources as well as using all available criminal legislation to its fullest extent. Operations in this area continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure their effectiveness.
 
The allocation of resources is monitored by Local Garda Management in the context of crime trends, policing needs and other operational strategies in place at District, Divisional and Regional level, to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources.
 
I am informed that Senior Garda Management is satisfied that a full and comprehensive policing service continues to be delivered and that current structures in place meet the requirement to deliver an effective and efficient policing service to the community.
 
It is also worth noting that the National Drug Strategy, of which the work of An Garda Síochána is a key element, provides an overarching national response to the drug problem. The National Drug Strategy, to which significant resources continue to be allocated, puts in place a co-ordinated and integrated approach tackling the issue under pillar headings of drugs supply reduction, education and prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and research.
 
I can assure the Deputy that the allocation of resources in tackling drug misuse is kept under ongoing review having regard to the priority that has been afforded to the problem through the National Drug Strategy and the policing priorities of An Garda Síóchána.

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