The Gardaí are to start using drones in the national fight against crime.
They will be available for major surveillance and undercover operations but especially for monitoring the movement of suspected drug shipments.
Justice Minister Simon Harris confirmed they have so far purchased 21 drones and they will be flown by the Garda Air Support Unit (GASU).
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He revealed: "The Garda Air Support Unit is currently conducting trials with a number of unmanned aircraft systems - drones.
"There is an internal working group tasked with examining the wider potential and scope to use drones to assist in various policing operations.
"I am advised that 21 drones have been procured by the Garda Air Support Unit for evaluation, training, and possible future operating use."
Mr Harris was responding to a written Dail question from former Labour leader and Tipperary TD Alan Kelly.
A senior Garda source said the drones will give them a discreet electronic eye in the sky to monitor members of the underworld.
Criminal gangs have already been using drones especially to ensure roads and areas are clear for landing and moving drugs in and out of the country.
It has long been suspected that large cocaine shipments have been coming ashore along the west coast and also to private airfields nationwide.
The source added: "The drones will be a big help to us going forward but some high tech criminals have been using them for years now. We will not be at a disadvantage."
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