Written answers

Tuesday, 23 September 2014

Department of Justice and Equality

Garda Resources

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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323. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will ensure that the Garda has the resources and manpower to deal with the drugs gangs who are intimidating whole communities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35842/14]

Photo of Frances FitzgeraldFrances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of all resources, including personnel, among the Garda Regions, Divisions and Districts. Garda management keep this distribution under continuing review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.

I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of dedicated Divisional Drugs Units on 31 July 2014, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 259. Resources are further augmented, where necessary, by a number of Garda National Units such as the Garda National Drugs Unit (GNDU), the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (NBCI), the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and other specialised units.

Under the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016 framework a ‘Drug-Related Intimidation Programme’ has been established by the Garda National Drugs Unit in conjunction with the community based National Family Support Network (FSN) with the support of the HSE's Social Inclusion Unit. Under the programme, nominated Garda Inspectors have been selected by the Garda Commissioner across the country to deal to the issue of drug related intimidation. These Inspectors act as a point of contact for any individuals (or for representatives of the FSN acting on individuals' behalf) in responding to any issues of drug related intimidation being experienced.

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