Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the concerns in relation to the decision to disband the Cavan/Monaghan Divisional Drugs Unit in view of the valuable work that it had undertaken since its establishment; if his attention has been drawn to the need to continue this work including drug seizures and dealing with other offences connected with illegal drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6928/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, throughout An Garda Síochána and I have no direct function in the matter. This allocation of resources is constantly monitored in the context of crime trends, policing needs and other operational strategies in place on District, Divisional and Regional levels to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and that the best possible Garda service continues to be provided to the public.

With regard to the policing arrangements for the Cavan/Monaghan Garda Division, I am advised by the Garda authorities that local Garda management recently carried out an overall review of policing structures within the Division in order to ensure the continued delivery of a full and comprehensive policing service to the community and to ensure the most efficient use of available resources. Following this review, the Garda authorities have determined that the Detective Branch in the Cavan/Monaghan Division, which has recently received additional personnel, will take a lead role in the enforcement of drug related legislation. This will be achieved through intelligence led policing and the undertaking of targeted operations against those involved in drug trafficking. This will ensure that this important aspect of policing remains a priority within the Division and local Garda management are satisfied that this is the most appropriate resource strategy to be adapted in this regard.

I can assure the Deputy that tackling the illegal drug trade remains a key priority for this Government and for An Garda Síochána, as reflected in the strategic actions outlined in the National Drug Strategy and the policing priorites of An Garda Síóchána. I will continue to support An Garda Síochána in all their efforts to bring about the successful disruption of the illegal drug trade and I commend them on their ongoing successes in this regard.