Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Almost two people per day die in Ireland as a result of drug-related deaths. That is more than 1,700 people since the Taoiseach took office. Our rate of drug-related deaths is almost five times the figure of those who die in road traffic accidents and is twice the European average. This is a national disgrace. There is no urgency because of the continuing stigma that attaches to the communities primarily affected. People with addictions are treated as criminals rather than receiving medical care. Grieving parents and families have no supports. At a time when countries across the world are bringing in reforms to drug policy, Ireland remains entrenched in a failed war-against-drugs mindset. This Government chose to prioritise a citizens' assembly on the Dublin mayor over a citizens' assembly on drugs. When will we get the long-overdue citizens' assembly on drugs policy?

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