image: IrishExaminer.ie
Gardaí are being forced to re-sell millions of euro worth of seized drugs, after announcements this week of planned cuts of €35 Million to the force’s payroll.
In 2011, nearly €90 Million of drugs were seized, and in 2012, that figure was passed within the first 9 months of the year.
Economic data shows that the illicit drugs market is recovering well from the recession and could be worth around €100 Million in total to Gardaí, if they take the innovative step, to sell off their stock to competitors.
In a move that would not only fill the deficit, but add a substantial surplus to the force’s books, Gardaí are now planning on re-selling their confiscated drugs back into the market, so that jobs and other resources won’t have to be adversely affected by the budget cuts.
ICBU
But, news of this has not been welcomed by everyone, as the Irish Crime Bosses Union (ICBU) have spoken out against the move. They claim that the market is already overly competitive and that the Gardaí will be able to undercut major players, as they did not pay for their drugs and have no costs to recoup.
They have written an official letter to Commissioner Callinan outlining their concerns and informing him that by under cutting the market, many jobs could be lost in the drugs industry due to the move.
But, Gardaí are expected to continue with the proposal as saving of €35 Million would not be able to be made without significantly damaging the entire force and their ability to function and protect the wider community.
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haha this is brilliant!