Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

It is important that we acknowledge success too. The Garda has been very vigilant and successful in confronting the gangs in Limerick in particular. Currently, 106 gangland members are in jail, including 20 of the leaders of the gangs, and that is because of the difficult task of following up the criminals and prosecuting them through the courts. That process is ongoing. The Minister for Justice and Equality has already told this House that the current significant raft of legislation is being reviewed constantly and the views of the Garda Síochána, particularly the Commissioner, on any resource or legislative measure that is required will always be entertained by the Minister.

On the drugs issue generally, the Deputy is right. We must get the message across to those who use drugs, particularly the middle class use of cocaine, that they are part of the gangland scene by providing a marketplace for this dangerous and destructive industry.

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