HSE head of Drugs and Alcohol services in Cork backs Citizens Assembly recommendations on drug-use strategy

THE HSE’s head of Drugs and Alcohol services in Cork has backed recommendations from the Citizens Assembly on drug use following a groundbreaking report published by them.

David Lane was referring to the Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use, which comprised of 36 recommendations in total. Proposals included a potential shift to a harm reduction model that would decriminalise drug taking for personal use.

The Citizens’ Assembly met from April to October last year in the run up to the report’s conclusion. Some 36 recommendations have been included in the report in total that have been submitted to the Oireachtas for consideration.

Proposals included a shift to a decriminalised model, the establishment of a dedicated Cabinet Committee on Drugs chaired by the Taoiseach and an emphasis on support for marginalised groups and communities.

Huge opportunities

Mr Lane said the report presents “huge opportunities” for Ireland as a country.

“There is massive potential in terms of the Citizens Assembly report for Ireland as a country. It gives us huge opportunities. The main question for us, however, is how much of this is going to be implemented.”

He expressed hope for the future of harm reduction measures in Ireland.

“I think it’s very exciting in terms of what is being recommended. A big part for me is the focus on recovery which is something we have been trying to do a lot of work around. If it’s implemented in full it could really be the international model in terms of how we respond to drug and alcohol issues in this country. It’s really designed with an Irish context so our legislation can be different to other countries. This is all about how we translate the recommendations into an Irish context and how we deliver services for people who need them.”

Progressive

Mr Lane described the report as “progressive” and added: “I’m very happy and excited about the report in terms of its potential to make a big difference. The report is progressive. It is timely, given the emphasis is on the health response to these challenges as opposed to the criminal justice response.”

Tabor Group CEO Colette Kelleher was equally positive about the recommendations.

“One key aspect that we find particularly encouraging is the emphasis on removing the stigma associated with drug use,” Ms Kelleher said.

“The assembly rightly highlights the importance of fostering greater public understanding about the circumstances leading to an individual’s drug use. By promoting a caring attitude and avoiding exclusion, we believe that the assembly’s recommendations will contribute significantly to ending the isolation often experienced by those in addiction. Furthermore, we applaud the assembly’s call for a health-led approach, advocating for wiping criminal records after a time period. This move not only supports individuals on their path to recovery but also offers them a second chance to reintegrate into society, whether through work or travel.”

Ms Kelleher also acknowledged proposals for statutory funding to treat drug addiction in Ireland.

“We are particularly pleased to note the assembly’s emphasis on statutory funding for drug use treatment, including trauma-informed residential treatment centres and support programmes for families. This holistic approach aligns with Tabor Group’s belief in the importance of addressing the broader aspects of addiction and recognising the role of families in the recovery process,” said Ms Kelleher.

“Lastly, the inclusion of housing as part of the response to drug use is commendable. Recognising housing issues associated with drug use and advocating for solutions, such as the Housing First model, showcases a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected challenges individuals face in their journey towards recovery.”