In November 2002, the Irish Defence Forces introduced a new Compulsory Random Drug Testing (CRDT) scheme, whereby 10% of armed forces personnel are to be randomly tested for drugs each year. The new mandatory scheme is being introduced as a deterrent, according to the Irish Defence Forces, and is aimed particularly at young recruits. The defence forces insist that the scheme is not indicative of any widespread use of drugs in the Irish army.
One in 10 members of the Irish Defence Forces are to be randomly tested for drugs on an annual basis under a new Compulsory Random Drug Testing (CRDT) scheme, introduced in November 2002. The move has been opposed by associations representing defence force members.
In November 2002, the Irish Defence Forces introduced a new Compulsory Random Drug Testing (CRDT) scheme, whereby 10% of armed forces personnel are to be randomly tested for drugs each year. The new mandatory scheme is being introduced as a deterrent, according to the Irish Defence Forces, and is aimed particularly at young recruits. The defence forces insist that the scheme is not indicative of any widespread use of drugs in the Irish army.
Under agreed procedures, 10% of the members of the defence forces will be picked at random and must produce a sample. If the sample proves negative, then the specimen and all records are destroyed and there the matter ends. If it is positive, however, the sample is divided in two with one sample being retained by the defence forces and the other presented to the individual, who can then have the sample tested independently in an approved laboratory.
If this second test confirms a first 'positive' test, then the individual concerned has seven days to appeal to their commanding officer as to whether there were any mitigating circumstances involved. Otherwise, the individual is almost certain to be dismissed. Accumulated pension or gratuity benefits are retained, and the reasons for dismissal are not to be included in any employment reference.
Pressure from the two associations that represent defence force members - the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) and the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers (RACO) - for the provision of a drug rehabilitation programme as an alternative to dismissal was rejected by the army.
A defence forces spokesperson stated that, unlike ordinary employees, soldiers have additional duties and responsibilities of care, as they are frequently in charge of loaded weapons, heavy artillery etc. He said that in any case the taking of illegal drugs is incompatible with the ethos of military life and contrary to military law.
However, is is quite possible that the programme will be subject of legal challenge in the courts from individuals testing positive who are discharged, according to PDFORRA. 'Clearly, the introduction of CRDT impacts on the rights of individuals to privacy and bodily integrity,' the army association said.
The internal army unit conducting the tests is to produce an annual report detailing the tests taken, the number which were positive and the action taken. The first such report will not be available until the end of 2003.
Few armies around the world have compulsory drug testing, although the British army and the British police forces test for drugs.
Eurofound doporučuje citovat tuto publikaci následujícím způsobem.
Eurofound (2003), Mandatory drug testing for defence forces, article.
