Organised crime is a relatively new phenomenon in Ireland. It has its origins in the illegal drugs markets of the early 1980s. The Government's response has been especially hard-hitting by international standards. This is demonstrated mainly by a policy of strong legislation which has established a modern criminal justice system able to respond effectively to the activities of organised criminal groups but organised crime is a global problem in which opportunity is a key factor. As measures are taken to respond to drug trafficking, for example, experience shows that criminal gangs look for opportunities elsewhere.