Written answers

Thursday, 5 October 2006

Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs

National Drugs Strategy

4:00 pm

Photo of Brian O'SheaBrian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 62: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the situation regarding the use and spread of crack cocaine here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31394/06]

Photo of Noel AhernNoel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Through the implementation structures of the National Drugs Strategy, my officials have on-going contact with representatives of An Garda Síochána, and the prevalence of crack cocaine in the country is among the issues discussed from time to time. I also periodically meet senior officers of An Garda Síochána to review developments in regard to illicit drugs.

The Gardaí are satisfied that the use of crack cocaine is largely confined to a small geographical area in Dublin. Furthermore, they have had some success in targeting the supply and use of this drug in that area. Also, in my visits to various Drugs Task Force areas in the past year or so, the issue of crack cocaine did not arise to any great extent in my discussions with community representatives and others on the nature of the drug problem in their regions.

I am confident that, through the implementation of the actions in the National Drugs Strategy, the projects and initiatives operated through the Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces and the operations of an Garda Síochána, the problem of crack cocaine use can be, and is being, addressed. Each of the Drugs Task Forces has in place an action plan to tackle drug use in their area based on their own identified priorities and they continue to have ongoing contact with their local communities.

However, I fully accept that a potential danger exists that the use of crack cocaine could spread rapidly and I assure the Deputy that I will continue to monitor the situation and that I will ensure that any necessary steps are taken to address increased threats, should they arise.

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