Intimidation of families.

Megan O' Leary, Family Support Network, carried out research on intimidation of families through the Family Support Network; here are some of her key findings: • 30 family support services knew of debt related intimidation that originated from a debt worth €500 or less • There was an even spread in the largest amount of debt that respondents were aware of. The most common amount was €10,000 - €20,000. • The most common forms of repayment that drug users used included cash payment and/or dealing and cash payment and/or holding or hiding drugs • Verbal threats (39), physical violence (33) and damage to home/property (33) are the most common forms of intimidation used • The family members most likely to be targeted are the mothers (35), siblings (23) & fathers (21) of drug users • Persons working for drug dealers normally collect the debt (32) Levels of violence: • Threatening Behaviour • Personal Property • Physical Violence • Sexual Violence or Threats of Sexual Violence • "Threatening behaviour to any of the residents committee members who may attempt to bring up the issue. Comments made, cars and property vandalised, their kids intimidated" • Victims are too scared to report intimidation to the Gardai and do not trust them to do anything about it. • Mothers whose children use drugs are most likely to be targeted Action 5 of the National Drugs Strategy: "To develop a framework to provide an appropriate response to the issue of drug related intimidation in the community." Work is ongoing to: • To provide a single point of contact. • Ensure a confidential and effective means of dealing with intimidation. • Provide families with sufficient support from An Garda Siochana • A pilot project has been devised that will link Family Support with a Nominated Inspector and a liaison officer who will manage cases with families to tackle intimidation