Mr. Drew Harris:

I might get back to the members with written responses on some of those issues. In regard to Laytown, that is on the programme for a rebuild.

We have a specific operation in place to support families in terms of intimidation around so-called drugs debts. We place a big emphasis on that both at divisional and national level in terms of detecting those involved in such intimidation. The offence of drug intimidation does not exist on the books but often we have made detections in respect of individuals who are on their route to conduct some form of violent attack on individuals. It is not by any means an area on which we do not put a great deal of effort. We are very conscious of the heavy and detrimental impact around drugs intimidation.

A new initiative was announced this week to support victims of human trafficking. This is moving from An Garda Síochána to an independent entity through the Department of Justice. One of the defects that was identified internationally was that in effect police have to investigate the crime of human trafficking. Welfare supports are better provided by some other entity. Ireland has moved into mainstream best practice in terms of response to that. We are very supportive of that. This was only announced this week.

The issue of body-worn cameras is related to ANPR. Along with body-worn cameras, we are also seeking legislation around digital evidence. This would include ANPR and CCTV systems and the ability to access those. You also need a database to check those numbers against and live information. This is all part of this digital evidence Bill that is being considered. Body-worn cameras are very important for us in terms of protecting members, but a body-worn camera is about the evidence - what is happening in front of them. A speed camera is a different thing and that is the piece that requires careful calibration around the identification of speeding.

All of us recognise the significant impact of the drugs trade. We are doing our utmost at international level to combat transnational organised crime gangs and at national level around seizures and seizures of assets. Between our efforts, the efforts of the Revenue Commissioners, international efforts and the work of CAB, we have a very good system here. On the other hand, significant amounts of cocaine are being pushed towards Europe and we are regarded as a profitable market for drugs. I do not think there is enough public education on the damage caused by drugs and the risk of addiction. Its huge destructive impact on society here and in countries of production has been somewhat downplayed.

I think I need to come back with a written response to the question on missing persons because each case is different. I have been very active in making sure each of those has been reviewed, and some have been lifted to murder investigations. Perhaps this should have happened some time ago but we are working through and are active in respect of that.