asked the Minister for Finance the proposals, if any, he has for providing the customs officials with improved drug detection facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that modern kits for the identification of drugs are available to customs officers at all points of entry to the State. At present the commissioners are considering proposals in regard to the feasibility of using X-ray equipment for the examination of postal packets and in regard to the extension of customs officers' powers to detain and search suspect persons and vehicles.