Fine Gael National Press Office Press Release

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More Community Gardaí are needed on the beat in Dublin City Centre to deter drug dealers from plying their trade, especially in civic spaces, according to Fine Gael's Justice Spokesperson Charlie Flanagan T.D.

"Last September, I wrote to the Garda Commissioner drawing his attention to the issue of drug dealers plying their trade in broad daylight in Dublin City Centre, following a representation from a concerned citizen. Unfortunately, the problem has continued to worsen since.

"It really is a sign that law and order has broken down in a community when dealers can sell drugs openly on the streets and along the Liffey Boardwalk - a facility denied to the people of this city and its visitors by drug dealers.

"The Government's decision to cut funding for the confidential 'dial to stop drug dealing' helpline is a blow to the fight against drug dealing. In the period November 2008-March 2009 the helpline received 1,400 tip offs from members of the public about drug dealing, 370 of which were referred to the Gardaí.

"Drugs are pouring into Ireland due to Government neglect. One x-ray scanner for every port, one single patrol boat for the enormous 5,800 kilometres of coastline, and infrequent or non-existent customs inspections at smaller and private airports provide drug dealers with carte blanche to bring drugs into this country. It is little wonder that under-resourcing at the coal-face has allowed them to sell these drugs on the streets in our capital city and around towns and villages throughout the State.

"The war on drugs is one that requires strategic resources, particularly in the area of community policing and customs. Turning a blind eye to this reality will only allow the crisis to deepen. I intend to raise this issue with Minister Ahern next week when the Dáil resumes."