Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

According to a recent report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Ireland is the fourth highest consumer of cocaine globally. This brings a risk of violence, as drug gangs compete for growing markets. According to the report, 2.4% of Irish people reported using cocaine in the past year. Only the Netherlands, Australia and Spain reported higher levels of cocaine use. In parallel, there is also a huge increase in the use of crack cocaine. It is fair to say drug use is now prevalent across all classes of society and in all regions of the country. Use of drugs leads to violence, including domestic violence, breakdown in relationships, mental health issues etc. Does the Taoiseach agree that the Government needs a new, more comprehensive and co-ordinated strategy to tackle this national scourge through education, crime prevention, elimination of drug trafficking and health support for those affected by drug abuse?

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