A total of 176 charges against 122 alleged drug dealers were brought by gardai in Dublin city centre last year.
An Garda Síochána revealed the figures after complaints earlier this week about open drug trading in parts of the city centre.
Shopkeepers claimed in a radio phone-in programme that there had been a big increase in open drug dealing at Aston Quay near O’Connell Bridge and along the Liffey boardwalk.
Fine Gael justice spokesman Charlie Flanagan said more community gardaí were needed on the beat in the city centre to deter such activity.
He said he had written to the Garda Commissioner last September, drawing his attention to "the issue of drug dealers plying their trade in broad daylight in Dublin city centre following a representation from a concerned citizen”.
“Unfortunately, the problem has continued to worsen since,” Mr Flanagan said.
In a statement, the Garda press office said gardai in Dublin city centre were continuing to target street dealing.
“During 2008 as part of an operation targeting the activities of drug dealers in Dublin city centre, 176 charges were brought against 122 dealers.
“Garda efforts in the area are continuing and we would encourage the public to report any incidents to their local gardai or via the Garda confidential line 1800 666 111.”
A ‘Dial to stop drug dealing’ hotline, advertised heavily last year, has failed to secure additional funding from the Government this year.
Set up on a trial basis in 2007, the Manchester-based hotline received 1,400 anonymous tips from the public since last November, of which 370 were forwarded to local Garda stations.