Crowe calls for ‘drug free zones around schools

Speaking in the Dáil yesterday, Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD Seán Crowe asked the Taoiseach to ensure the necessary provision be made in the pending changes to legislation dealing with the sale and distribution of illegal drugs that would increase sentencing for dealers who target school children.

Deputy Crowe, who is also his party’s Education spokesperson pointed out that the age groups of people selling and taking drugs was getting ever younger and some dealers were targeting school children who not yet reached their teens.

He continued: “The targeting of children in a bid to get them hooked on drugs, or to act as couriers, is one of the most despicable crimes being committed in the Irish State. Sadly, it is a practise that is becoming all too common and any changes to the existing legislation that deals with the illegal sale of drugs must adopt a zero tolerance approach to those who target children in this way.

“In cities across the United States, laws passed in the 1980’s created drug-free zones around schools and parks where people are given a mandatory minimum sentence for selling drugs.

“Anything we can do to eliminate drug dealers from targeting schools children is extremely important and it can be a powerful deterrent in the fight against drug crime

“When I raised this matter with the Taoiseach he said that my proposals will be a central tenant of the Bill which I welcome, and hope will be realised as soon as possible.”

Notes for editors:
Question asked by deputy Crowe: We know that the age group of those engaged in selling and taking drugs is getting younger and younger. This is particularly a problem inside and outside schools and in their vicinities. In other jurisdictions there are heavier sentences for such offences. Legislation is pending to deal with the issue of drugs. Will this issue be dealt with in the legislation?

Taoiseach’s response: I do not have a date for the legislation but the point made by the Deputy is valid. When the Bill is published the issue of concern to the Deputy will be central to it. We cannot have the lives of young people threatened and imposed on by this most reprehensible carry-on.