1287. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he will engage with the Criminal Assets Bureau to ensure that all necessary resources are made available for a dedicated operation targeting those responsible for drug debt intimidation; and if he will detail the plans to strengthen CAB's capacity in this regard. [76199/26]
1288. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he will engage directly with Garda management to ensure a sustained and targeted crackdown on those responsible for drug debt intimidation. [76198/26]

Jim O'Callaghan, Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration: I propose to take Questions Nos. 1287 and 1288 together.

The Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána under Section 33 of the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024, which includes the recruitment and training of, and distribution and stationing of Garda personnel throughout the State.

As Minister, it is my role to support the Commissioner in ensuring he has the funding he needs for vital policing work, and this Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs to combat all forms of crime, including drug-related intimidation.

Budget 2027 provides unprecedented funding of €2.76 billion to support recruitment and staffing. Following the attestation of a further 207 Garda recruits in October, there are now more Garda members serving than at any point in the history of the State, providing the Garda Commissioner with additional capacity to deliver a visible and responsive policing service across communities nationwide.

The Government has placed a strong focus on disrupting those engaged in organised crime, drug trafficking and drug-related intimidation while also ensuring victims and affected families can access practical supports and protections.

My Department addresses drug-related intimidation as part of its broader work to combat organised crime and enhance community safety. Working closely with partners across Government, An Garda Síochána, health services, community organisations and the wider criminal justice system, the Department is progressing a range of policy, operational and legislative measures designed to disrupt criminal networks, protect vulnerable individuals and strengthen community resilience.

Through the Drug Related Intimidation Reporting Programme, designated Garda Inspectors are available in every Garda Division to engage with individuals and families who are experiencing intimidation. This programme ensures that those affected can access appropriate supports while maintaining the confidentiality, dignity and safety of those seeking assistance. Encouraging reporting remains a key priority, as timely intervention can be critical in protecting individuals and preventing further harm.

An Garda Síochána also continues to target the organised crime groups responsible through initiatives such as Operation Tara and Operation Fógra. Under Operation Tara, An Garda Síochána are disrupting, dismantling and prosecuting those involved in drug trafficking and organised crime. Intelligence-led operations, coordinated investigations and targeted enforcement activity, undertaken by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, together with regional Garda units and the Criminal Assets Bureau have led to criminal networks being deprived of drugs, cash, assets and the profits that sustain their activities. In addition, Operation Fógra combines a victim-centred harm reduction approach with targeted enforcement activity. Through this work, An Garda Síochána seeks both to support those affected and to disrupt the criminal networks responsible

The DRIVE (Drug related intimidation & violence engagement) project, funded by the Department of Health, is another element of the Government’s approach to tackling drug related intimidation. DRIVE is an interagency project which outlines systems and structures to respond to drug-related intimidation and associated violence. It focuses on responding to incidents, supporting those affected, and preventing future occurrences. It operates on a national scale across Ireland, ensuring consistent and comprehensive support in all regions.

In addition, the Proceeds of Crime Bill 2025, which is currently progressing through the Oireachtas, will substantially enhance the State's capacity to pursue the proceeds of criminal activity. The legislation will provide the Criminal Assets Bureau with strengthened powers to deprive offenders of the gains derived from crime and will enable the courts to take swift action to prevent individuals from continuing to benefit from criminally held assets. The Bill will also facilitate more timely disposal of seized assets for the benefit of the State and strengthen information-sharing arrangements between the Criminal Assets Bureau and law enforcement authorities in other jurisdictions.

These measures reflect the comprehensive approach taken by Government, which is combining strong actions against organised crime with practical supports for affected individuals, families and communities.

Question No. 1288 answered with Question No. 1287.