Drug Sentences 'Average Two Years'

A report published yesterday has revealed that long sentences for drug offences are rare in Ireland and other European countries.

The report from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction said there were no cases where the offender received the maximum sentence for supply in Ireland in 2007.

In fact, the report found the average sentence for drug offences in Ireland was two years and 10 months.

The report said the minimum sentence in Ireland of 10 years' imprisonment for drug trafficking had only been applied in three of 55 eligible cases between 1999 and 2001. Most sentences fell in the range six to eight years, and many of those convicted secured early release.

Responding to the findings this morning, Fine Gael Justice Spokesperson, Charlie Flanagan, said the State’s approach to sentencing must act as a real deterrent to drug dealing by criminals.

"The Oireachtas introduced mandatory sentencing for serious drug offences for the very good reason of deterring criminals from drug dealing. However, if the courts are not implementing the legislation, the deterrent is undermined. If criminals feel that the reward outweighs the risk then they will continue to engage in a trade that is attacking the fabric of our society," he said.

He added: "I believe remission should not be automatic, it should be earned. Those convicted of drug offences and who participate in drug rehabilitation programmes, where they are available, deserve to be considered for remission.

"Instead of our prisons offering a chance of recovery to drug addicts, their problems often worsen during their sentences."

(DW/BMcC)