Number of mandatory drug terms double

THE number of offenders given the mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for drug trafficking doubled last year.

Figures released by Justice Minister Dermot Ahern show 22% of traffickers were given at least 10 years in 2007, compared to 11% in 2006.

Labour TD Joe Costello welcomed the increase, but expressed concern at what was still a “very low” implementation of the 10-year minimum sentence.