Councillor says time for ”major change” in treatment of drug users

2022-12-01

There needs to be a "major change" in how we treat drug users in this country. That's according to Councillor Niall McNelis, who argues we need a health-based approach to the issue, and more resources for Gardaí to tackle gangs, traffickers and dealers. He says the criminalisation of drug use hasn't worked in Ireland, in Europe, or further abroad - and it's now time to look at decriminalisation. Councillor McNelis further points out that Ireland now has the joint-highest rate of dru...

There needs to be a "major change" in how we treat drug users in this country.

That's according to Councillor Niall McNelis, who argues we need a health-based approach to the issue, and more resources for Gardaí to tackle gangs, traffickers and dealers.

He says the criminalisation of drug use hasn't worked in Ireland, in Europe, or further abroad - and it's now time to look at decriminalisation.

Councillor McNelis further points out that Ireland now has the joint-highest rate of drug-induced deaths among 16-to-64 years old in the EU.

Speaking to Galway Talks, Councillor McNelis argues a new approach is urgently needed.

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