It’s claimed the decriminalisation of drugs in Clare would strip the power from gangs ruthlessly ruling local communities.
With the Citizens Assembly set to make their final recommendations this month, new figures show that 170 people in this county were treated for drug addiction last year.
Following almost two-hundred hours of discussion on the impact of illicit drugs on society, the assembly of 99 random citizens is set to vote on its final recommendations to the Oireachtas at the end of the month.
According to chairperson and former HSE CEO Paul Reid, the group is set to support the decriminalisation but not the legalisation of a wide array of narcotics.
In the last year alone offences relating to the sale or supply of drugs in this county increased by 38% .
However a North Clare man who previously suffered from addiction believes decriminalisation would be transformational for local communities.
Allen McDonagh from Liscannor who is now a life coach says it would take the power away from ruthless gangs while allowing those who have suffered to have a second chance.
Clare’s Aontú representative believes any relaxation of laws will lead to an increase in drug use and therefore increase pressure on detox and rehabilitation services.
While the Gardaí and the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Breda Smyth have been among those to raise concerns over potential legalisation leading to enhanced uptake in recent weeks.
According to the Health Research Board, 171 people in Clare were treated for drug addiction in 2022, while the number of referalls relating to cocaine use increased by 25% in the last year.
Additionally nine people in this county under the age of eighteen underwent treatment for drug addiction over the last twelve months.
Although with the three key areas of focus for the assembly being funding, policy and services, Aontú MidWest PRO Eric Nelligan claims investment in youth diversion and recreational activities is the best way to tackle the root of the problem.
