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Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ministerial Task Force on Drug Abuse.

Sentencing for drug trafficking

Summary

Shatter urged the task force to consider uniform prison sentences for drug traffickers regardless of nationality; the Chair ruled that sentencing was not open for discussion.

Would the Minister bring to the attention of the ministerial task force the need to ensure uniformity of sentencing in respect of the prosecution and conviction of people involved in drug trafficking? In their further work, the ministerial task force might examine the need for such uniformity and recommend publicly that those engaged in drug trafficking, be they Irish nationals or otherwise, serve prison sentences. We must ensure that those people are not treated differently by virtue of their nationality.

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Thomas J. Fitzpatrick An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

I would remind Deputies that Question No. 6 which deals with a report from the task force cannot be taken as an opportunity for an across-the-board discussion on drugs.

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Perhaps the Minister would indicate whether the task force will deal with the problem of sentencing.

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Thomas J. Fitzpatrick An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

This House has no function in the practice of sentencing. Only this morning I ruled out a question on this matter.

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