Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 392: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will respond to a query (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32465/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am sure that the Deputy can fully appreciate that An Garda Síochána does not, as a matter of policy and on grounds of security, disclose information relating to the security arrangements which are in place at national installations. I can inform the Deputy however in relation to this matter that it is the Customs Service of the Office of the Revenue Commissioners which has primary responsibility for the prevention, detection, interception and seizure of controlled drugs at their point of importation. The service has particular responsibility for implementing import controls at points of entry to the State, specifically, at ports, airports (including licensed airfields) and on the land frontier.

An Garda Síochána continues to cooperate fully with the Customs Service in preventing drugs entering the State. Operations are conducted on an intelligence-led basis utilising the resources of national, local and specialised units where appropriate to ensure the most effective application of personnel and other resources. Inherent in the planning and execution of such operations is a risk assessment of vulnerable locations. I am further informed that An Garda Síochána has recently launched an 'Air-watch' initiative, in cooperation with the Customs Service, specifically targeting aerodromes and their environs. Garda management will continue to keep the situation under review in collaboration with the Customs Service to enure that a robust and effective law enforcement response is put in place to counteract suspected illegal activities.