Urgent action must be taken on child drug exploitation – Butterly

More work must be done to protect children from exploitation by gangs, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Paula Butterly has renewed her call for a coordinated national response to the exploitation of children in drug trafficking, following last night’s RTÉ Prime Time programme which highlighted the growing crisis in Drogheda and across County Louth.

Deputy Butterly, who has consistently raised concerns about the use of children to transport drugs across the region, said the programme clearly demonstrated the scale and urgency of the issue.

“What we saw on Prime Time reflects what communities across Louth and the country have been experiencing for far too long. Children are being groomed and exploited by criminal gangs to transport drugs,” said the Fine Gael TD.

“We saw clear progress through the work of the Drogheda Implementation Board set up by then Minister for Justice Helen McEntee. This board ceased its work in 2024 and it’s vital that this structure is built upon to maintain momentum and deliver sustained change nationwide.

“Early intervention through schools is critical and we need to ensure that schools under the greatest pressure have the support they need. This would have a real impact on their capacity to support vulnerable students.

“The extension this year of the Home School Community Liaison service to 130 additional schools is hugely important, and we want to see this expanded even further. This scheme supports schools to strengthen engagement with parents and deepen the cooperation between home, school and community.”

Deputy Butterly called for increased investment in community-based addiction and mental health services, emphasising the need for early intervention and accessible supports for vulnerable young people and their families.

“We urgently need more addiction and mental health services embedded within our communities. Services that young people and families can access locally are critical to breaking cycles of harm and preventing further exploitation.

“Family Resource Centres, like Moneymore and the Redeemer in Dundalk, are on the frontline of tackling these issues. They provide essential support to families under pressure, and they must be properly resourced to continue their work.

“This is not an issue that can be solved by one department alone. We need a coordinated plan across Government to ensure children are protected, families are supported, and communities are made safer. We need to get into the heart of communities and work directly with families and children affected, so that not only they, but future generations, have a better future.

“We cannot wait any longer. The safety and future of our children depend on the actions we take today; we must put families and children in a position to realise that there are alternatives to a life of crime.” said Deputy Butterly.

ENDS