Illicit drug use in Ireland

Nirvana head shop

Illicit Drug Use in Ireland

Illicit drug use in Ireland refers to the consumption, possession, and distribution of illegal substances within the Republic of Ireland. This issue has significant social, economic, and health implications for the country.

History

The history of illicit drug use in Ireland can be traced back to the 1960s and 1970s when substances like cannabis and heroin began to appear in the country. The problem escalated in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly in urban areas such as Dublin. The government responded with various policies and initiatives aimed at curbing drug use and trafficking.

Common Illicit Drugs

The most commonly used illicit drugs in Ireland include:

• Cannabis
• Cocaine
• Heroin
• MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy)
• Amphetamines
• New psychoactive substances (NPS)

Legislation

Illicit drug use in Ireland is governed by the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977, which has been amended several times to address emerging drug trends. The act classifies drugs into different schedules and outlines penalties for possession, trafficking, and production.

Government Initiatives

The Irish government has implemented several initiatives to combat illicit drug use, including:

• The National Drugs Strategy
• The establishment of the Health Service Executive (HSE) Drug and Alcohol Helpline
• The creation of Drug and Alcohol Task Forces to coordinate local responses

Health Implications

Illicit drug use has significant health implications, including the spread of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C, mental health issues, and overdose deaths. The HSE provides various services to address these issues, including needle exchange programs and addiction treatment services.

Social and Economic Impact

The social and economic impact of illicit drug use in Ireland is profound. It contributes to crime, family breakdown, and unemployment. The cost of healthcare, law enforcement, and social services related to drug use is substantial.

Harm Reduction

Harm reduction strategies in Ireland include:

• Needle exchange programs
• Methadone maintenance treatment
• Supervised injection facilities (proposed)

Public Perception

Public perception of illicit drug use in Ireland has evolved over time. There is increasing awareness of the need for a balanced approach that includes prevention, treatment, and harm reduction.

See Also

• Drug policy of Ireland
• Health in Ireland
• Crime in Ireland
• Substance abuse