Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe, has called for a stronger Government focus on tackling Ireland’s drugs crisis.

Crowe was speaking after meeting Dublin officials of the Drugs Task Force in Leinster House and he called for a Ministerial post to deal with drug and substance abuse.

Deputy Crowe said:

“I have been a member of the Tallaght Drugs Task Force for over a number of Ministries some good, some bad, and some mediocre, and it’s clear to see that Dublin’s drug problem is increasing while funding for frontline services are decreasing.

“There has been continuous and multiple budget reductions to the core service of Drug Task Forces over the past 5 years, which has meant less staff hours and funding to support emerging needs within projects and communities.

“Alcohol abuse has also been added to work of Drugs Task Forces but they haven’t received any extra funds for this extra workload.

“The huge and continuous funding cut backs have ensured that projects are unable to plan for the future and they are constantly in fear of further cuts.

“This week’s enormous drugs haul of the coast of Cork shows the very real threat that is facing communities.

“I believe it is time that the Government establishes a Ministerial post to champion and deal with drug and substance abuse in our communities.”

ENDS