The Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use has published 36 recommendations for a new Irish model that would help to reduce the harm caused by illicit drugs use.
Widespread changes to existing laws governing penalties for the possession of drugs for personal use are proposed, as well as greater funding for and resourcing of services at national and local levels, greater oversight and accountability at cabinet level, and a broader focus on prevention and education on the impact of drugs use.
The report also details the votes by members on the final set of recommendations, where they supported specific measures for implementation including:
- A decriminalised model, put in place by a pivot from a reliance, in the first instance, on a criminal justice response towards a comprehensive health-led response
- Strengthened political oversight and priority through the establishment of a dedicated Cabinet Committee on Drugs, chaired by the Taoiseach
- Prioritisation of supports for marginalised groups and disadvantaged communities
- Enhanced funding, including additional and new sources of funding
- A greater focus on prevention and recovery and greater supports for families and children impacted by drug use
- Strengthened services including the expansion of harm reduction measures and treatment and recovery services, both in prison and in communities
- Supply reduction, supporting the continued efforts of the Gardaí while strengthening the response to drug-related intimidation and violence by organised crime groups.
The final report has been submitted to the Oireachtas for consideration. The former USE and the current Drugs Assembly Chair Paul Reid commented on the report’s release:
“While the Citizens’ Assembly was in session, it is likely that several hundred people in Ireland died of drug-related causes. The emergence of highly potent synthetic opioids towards the end of 2023 and the ongoing drugs-related criminality and violence are daily reminders of the wider threats and challenges that exist arising from drugs use.
We see the remarkable work being done by service providers across the community, voluntary and statutory sectors. They need and deserve greater resources to carry out their work. We do not have to wait for the Oireachtas to consider this report for them to receive the funding to allow them to do their work effectively.
“The Citizens’ Assembly was given the important job of considering what the State could do to significantly reduce the harms caused by illicit drug use, and a clear deadline to produce a final report. We have produced an Irish model set in an Irish context that represents a generational chance to improve the lives of many individuals, families and communities impacted by our current approach to drug use. We owe it to them and society in general to embrace this opportunity.”
