Madam, - Your Editorial of July 4th on the threat of cocaine use in Irish society, in the context of the fortuitous drugs seizure off West Cork, outlined a multifaceted response to deal with this threat. Your suggestions that drug barons in prison be more tightly monitored, that the provision of detoxification beds be expanded to addicts from outside Dublin, and more emphasis be placed on rehabilitation are commendable.
However, I am of the view the those who peddle drugs purely for profit, when caught, should be dealt with under the Criminal Justice Act 1999, which provides for minimum mandatory 10-year sentences for offences which relate to possession of drugs for supply with a value of £10,000 or more.
This legislation was enacted by the Dáil and endorsed by the electorate in two subsequent general elections, but has long been the subject of some controversy as many judges appear reluctant to impose the mandatory sentence. If further legislation is required to compel the judiciary to comply with an Act of the Oireachtas, then so be it.
It is unacceptable that the law of the people lawfully expressed in Oireachtas legislation be subverted by a recalcitrant judiciary.
- Yours, etc,
TOM COOPER, Delaford Lawn, Knocklyon, Dublin 16.
Madam, - Your front-page story of July 3rd reported that the LE Orla had to be diverted from duties off the north-west coast to join the cocaine seizure in Dunlough Bay.
If that was the nearest naval vessel at the time, is it any wonder drug smugglers reach our shores? Surely the Government must increase the number of naval vessels rather than merely replacing retiring ships.
- Yours, etc,
EOIN MARTIN, Breffni Road, Sandycove, Co Dublin.