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Nine News: Gareth O'Connor reports that some groups which monitor prisons call the measures 'unworkable'
The Minister for Justice, Michael McDowell, has announced tough measures cracking down on the use of illegal drugs within Ireland's 14 prisons.
The new policy will include mandatory drugs testing, the use of detection dogs and increased security during visits.
Mr McDowell announced the initiative to a gathering of prison governors in Portlaoise prison this afternoon.
He said he would no longer tolerate a culture of drugs within the prison population.
Mr McDowell also announced that he will be bringing proposals to Government for new statutory sentencing powers which will include allowing the courts to impose orders on restricting movement and electronic monitoring.
