Funds to publicise drug hotline put on hold
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THE Government has stopped funding for the promotion of a "dial to stop drug dealing" hotline which had led to drug seizures and arrests.
Although €300,000 has already been allocated to promote the hotline in a few areas, no further funding will be available for similar awareness-boosting of the service in other local drugs task forces.
The hotline is designed to help people living in areas affected by drug dealing who fear they would be assaulted or have their homes burnt if they were exposed as an informant.
The Junior Minister for Drugs, John Curran, confirmed no more funds are available for further campaigns to promote the hotline.
Fine Gael Dublin South Central TD Catherine Byrne said this would be a "huge loss" because the hotline had proved its effectiveness.
Seizures
When it was piloted in Blanchardstown in 2006, the hotline generated 306 information reports. Gardai have confirmed the information has proved useful to their inquiries and has yielded a number of seizures and arrests.
Although the freephone number (1800 220 220) will remain operational, there are fears the lack of promotion will mean those who need it will not be aware of its existence.
Ms Byrne said the service was an excellent alternative for people who were afraid to visit or phone a garda station.
- Michael Brennan Political Correspondent
