Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 247: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number and rank of the Gardaí in the drug unit based at Blanchardstown Garda Station; if there are additional drug units in the sub-stations at Cabra and Finglas; if not, if one unit is considered adequate to deal with major drug crime in all three areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30883/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I have been informed by the Garda authorities that there is one Sergeant and eight Gardaí currently allocated to Blanchardstown Drug Unit which also covers the sub-districts of Finglas and Cabra. Enforcement of drug legislation is a matter for all members of An Garda Síochána and the District Drug Unit is supplemented by uniformed and plain-clothes units in the District and the Divisional Crime Task Force Units and Traffic Corps Units, as well as the Community Policing Unit and Mountain Bike Unit. In addition, the Garda National Drug Unit which holds the national remit for targeting networks involved in the sale and distribution of illegal drugs works with local Drugs Units, as well as other National Units, including the Criminal Assets Bureau, targeting those responsible for the sale and supply of illicit substances in local communities.

I am assured by the Garda authorities that local Garda Management closely monitors District and Divisional crime trends and continue to regularly review personnel, on the basis of policing requirements.