Blog

Women face obstacles when accessing drug and alcohol treatment in Ireland

It is well documented that women face significant barriers when attempting to access treatment services for drugs and alcohol. The experiences of Irish women tell a similar story. Despite the rising number of women reporting drug and alcohol use in Ireland, they are less likely to attend drug and alcohol treatment services than men. Earlier […]

Dublin’s drug problems continue with crack cocaine and heroin use rife

According to the latest figures from the Health Research Board (HRB), the number of people entering treatment for crack cocaine use has increased by 400% in the last six years. In 2014, 84 people in Ireland entered drug treatment for crack cocaine use. In 2020, that figure rose to 414. The number of women reporting […]

New initiative will see the Garda undergo random drug testing

One in 20 gardaí will undergo random, annual drug testing as part of a new drive against substance abuse within the force. In June, it was announced that a newly formed Anti-Corruption Unit, which comprises 26 gardaí, will focus its efforts on drug use within the Garda as well as issues around professional boundaries. Last […]

Ireland’s cocaine use has doubled since 2003, new data shows

New data from the Health Research Board (HRB) has found that cocaine use in Ireland has doubled since 2003, with more men aged between 25 and 34 using the drug than ever before. Findings from the National Drug and Alcohol Survey 2019-20 also show increased use of illegal stimulants and continued high levels of binge […]

Ballymun sees surge in drug dealing and crack cocaine use, new report finds

A recent report commissioned by Dublin City Council suggests that Ballymun in north Dublin is experiencing a “surge” in crack cocaine use, drug dealing and youth crime. The number of drug offences in the former high-rise area has doubled over the past four years. Senior gardaí who contributed to the report stated that open drug […]

Drugs are Irish racing’s number one problem

Jim Bolger, one of the most prominent trainers in the country, has said that drugs are Irish racing’s number one problem. In an interview, the County Kilkenny-based racehorse trainer and breeder further maintained that he doesn’t believe a level playing field exists in the sport. Bolger also said he was concerned with the “lack of […]

No criminal record for personal use cannabis

People found to be in possession of cannabis for personal use can avoid a criminal conviction if they admit the offence and accept a caution, Garda has announced. The offence is one of four to have been approved and added to the Adult Cautioning Scheme (ACS) by the Director of Public Prosecutions. The scheme allows […]

‘Dangerous’ ‘dial-a-drink’ delivery services on the rise

Campaigners are warning that Ireland is moving into ‘dangerous territory’, in which underage drinkers have unprecedented access to alcohol. Since the pandemic began, alcohol delivery and 24-hour ‘dial-a-drink’ services have increased, allowing underage drinkers to easily purchase alcohol without the need to prove their age and legal right to drink. Even before the pandemic – […]