249. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding debt and safety in respect of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27295/15]

Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald): I can inform the Deputy that the particular issue and the details provided have been brought to the attention of the Garda authorities.

More generally, the Deputy will be aware that drug-related violence and intimidation is a particularly harmful feature of the drugs trade.

Under the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016, An Garda Síochána has put a framework in place to provide an appropriate response to the issue of drug related intimidation in the community.

This framework known as the "Drug-Related Intimidation Programme” was developed by the Garda National Drugs Unit and the community based National Family Support Network and introduced nationwide in 2013.

Under the programme nominated Garda Inspectors for every Garda Division have been designated by the Garda Commissioner to ensure that a confidential, safe and effective means of dealing with reports of intimidation is readily available. These Inspectors act as a direct point of contact for any individuals (or for representatives acting on their behalf) in responding to intimidation being reported.