A new service to help families deal with drug-related intimidation has been launched.

The National Family Support Network (NFSN) says the problem has worsened in recent years with families now unable to pay debts accrued by relatives.

The launch revealed that petrol bombing and sexual violence are among the methods used by drug dealers to get money from the families of people who owe them money.

A presentation attended by Assistant Garda Commissioner Derek Byrne said debts usually arise when drugs are stolen or seized.

He said they can range from €100 to tens of thousands of euro.

Drug dealers sometimes return to demand more money when they realise families have the means to pay them.

Gardaí and the NFSN are now providing a confidential service through which families can either pursue a criminal complaint or get informal advice.

NFSN spokesperson Sadie Grace said that in the past families had remortgaged their homes to pay off drug dealers but now many are unable to raise money.

The NFSN can be contacted on 01-8365168.