Random drug testing is to be introduced for Gardaí.
The anti-corruption unit says it's putting members on notice, that the misuse of drugs is not tolerated.
The new policy will see all Garda personnel independently tested, including new recruits.
It will take at least six months to put the system into place.
Gardaí who test positive for a substance will face dismissal.
However, they may also face prosecution.
Assistant Commissioner Pat Clavin says "we know of instances where we've had some of our people recreationally using drugs. So I would be concerned".
Head of the newly established Anti-Corruption Unit Chief Superintendent Johanna O'Leary says a small number of complaints have been made so far:
She said "There are some around drug-taking. There's some obviously where there might be infiltration from organized crime groups."
When asked whether Gardai had received at least one complaint of infiltration of organized crime into the Gardai, Ms. O'Leary said "Not as such, but just a complaint loosely around that."
