Ms Anna Quigley:

Just before Covid, we did work on the drugs issue in rural areas and talked to community people involved. It was interesting in that there were similarities and differences. The similarity identified was that even within rural areas, the poorest were most likely to have difficulties. However, what emerged really strongly were the stigma and shame in rural areas. There was a big issue in that services simply were not available in the first place. I should have started with that. The services were extremely limited. Some of the regional task forces were trying to deliver services but obviously they were in the major towns. Therefore, the services were not available. Community representatives were aware of people who had an issue with stigma. They said the stigma attached to those identified as involved in drugs in rural areas was absolutely massive. The issue of stigma, which has been referred to here in many different ways, is something we just have to tackle. If any message can come out, it is that using drugs is a normal part of life. Irish people do it. This evening, we can go to the pub and have a drink and that is not seen as abnormal behaviour or suggestive of there being something wrong with us. It is frustrating because there is a huge disconnect between that and how drug use is presented in the general media and in the area of entertainment. It is all about bad people doing bad things. Those we encountered in our work identified the extent of the stigmatisation, which makes it incredibly difficult for people to come forward.

There was a sense, although we are still following this up, that Covid presented an opportunity in one way because the projects in rural areas and towns had to move online, as everyone did. That allowed some people to make contact who never would have come in personally. It was interesting that Covid presented this opportunity. Obviously, what can be done online is limited because contact has to be made. There is a sense that we can find a way of reaching out or at least let people know what is available, but there is still the barrier of stigma. One point made was about getting the information to people. Those concerned stated people have no idea there are services available. The online element is very positive but the stigma is absolutely an issue.

Politicians say all the time that although they know there are serious drug issues in housing estates and small towns, these are never brought up when they knock on people’s doors because there is such a sense of shame. It is heartbreaking. Regardless of the next drugs strategy, we have to have some way, through a national campaign or something else, to shift the narrative such that drug use will not be something to be ashamed of. The stigma is very deep rooted.