Over €51 million euro worth of controlled drugs and 151 arrests made so far in 2021

Dublin Fingal TD, Alan Farrell, has said that the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) has had significant success in disrupting criminal gangs involved in the drug trade in 2021.

Deputy Farrell said, following the submission of a Parliamentary Question, “GNDOCB have had significant success in disrupting criminal activity in the course of 2021. As of Nov 18th, GNDOCB have made 151 arrests, seized €51.84 million, recovered four firearms, 55 rounds of ammunition, and seized €5.1 million in cash.

“These are significant seizures that will dent the spread of drugs and the associated violence that gangs inflict on our communities. However, we must be resolute in the face of this enemy.

“Large parts of the city are awash with drugs; it has become a pervasive force in our society. A causal acceptance of many substances has led to more common place drug use, one that is often more subtle than in bygone decades.

“This affects all communities and all sectors of society.

“Drug abuse has many serious knock-on effects, including tearing at the fabric of society through increases in crime and anti-social behaviour.” Deputy Farrell added.

Deputy Farrell continued, “The Gardai, as well as HSE and other diversionary programmes, work tirelessly to disrupt the drug trade and provide victims of drug abuse with the necessary supports. Striking a balance of enforcement and health-led approaches will be key in fighting drug use in Ireland.

“The recent announcement that 800 additional Gardaí and 400 civilian staff will be recruited under Budget 2022 and investment in infrastructure and IT will further bolster the authorities’ ability to root out this activity.

“I am also pleased that Operation Tara, led by An Garda Síochána, aims to tackle street-level drug dealing. Just since October, Operation Tara, has led to a seizure of €123,000 worth of controlled drugs in Ringsend, Dublin; €100,000 worth of cannabis in Kildare; €304,000 worth of cannabis and cocaine in Wexford; €104,000 worth of controlled drugs in Cork; among other seizures.” Deputy Farrell concluded