It’s claimed Ireland has “sleepwalked onto a landmine” amid Clare’s cocaine epidemic.
New Health Research Board figures show there’s been an 87% increase in the number of addiction cases concerning the drug in this county.
The 129 cases of people receiving treatment for Cocaine addiction in Clare in 2025 was by far and away the highest on record in this county, a trend that was replicated nationwide.
It means that half the individuals that presented at rehabilitation centres in this county last year for drug addiction, did so to receive treatment for cocaine.
Across all genders, age ranges, employment types and living situations, it was a record year for cocaine addiction cases in Clare by all metrics.
Michael Guerin who’s an Independent Addiction Counsellor operating across the MidWest says the problem is far greater than any public perception.
Calls are now being made for a stand alone National Drugs Strategy Minister to combat the problem and for a similar targeted advertising campaign such as the one focusing on tobacco to be directed at cocaine.
Michael, who previously overcame an alcohol addiction himself says anyone can win their battle with addiction, but believes much more resources are needed at a government level.
Listen to the full interview here:
