Councillor praises ongoing crackdown on illegal substances in Mayo town

An elected representative has welcomed An Garda Siochána's ongoing crackdown on illegal substances in Castlebar.

Councillor Harry Barrett said the government must make sure the law stays one step ahead of criminals.

He elaborated: "The town of Castlebar has already seen major drug seizures this year.

"It reflects how determined organised crime is to target our communities.

"I am particularly concerned in regard to products that are deliberately designed to look like ordinary sweets and jellies.

"Any parent would be worried that a child could mistake one of these products for something harmless.

"That is why I am so pleased to see gardaí taking strong action.

"I congratulate An Garda Síochána, Revenue and everyone involved for their work.

"They have taken dangerous products off our streets and deserve enormous credit for the work they have done.

"We cannot afford to think this is somebody else's problem. We need to keep putting pressure on those involved in the drugs trade and continue supporting gardaí with the resources they need.

"Government also has a responsibility to act.

"Criminal gangs are constantly changing their products to get around the law, and legislation needs to move just as quickly.

"I am calling on government to introduce laws that allow any new drug products designed to look like sweets, jellies, soft drinks or other products aimed at children to be banned without delay.

"We should never be in a position where the law is playing catch-up with organised crime.

"If we are serious about protecting young people in Castlebar and across Mayo, we need to stay one step ahead."