Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will develop the drugs court as an alternative to prison. [15056/11]

Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Alan Shatter): Drug treatment courts can make an important contribution as a restorative justice measure but international studies also indicate that they need to evolve and develop on an ongoing basis. My Department carried out a review of the Dublin Drug Treatment Court which was published in May 2010 and identified particular issues to be addressed in terms of the court’s management and operation. As a result of that review an Advisory Committee was established which has met regularly to progress matters and to monitor the implementation of the recommendations in the Report with the aim of improving the programme’s throughput and effectiveness.