Releasing Cork substance abuse figures, Coolmine chief says cocaine's rise is 'deeply concerning'

More than 400 people in Cork and Kerry were treated for substance abuse by Coolmine Therapeutic Community in the first three months of this year, while alcohol issues accounted for more than half of the cases.

However, the organisation's chief executive has noted the rise in the numbers now being treated for cocaine use, and described them as 'deeply concerning'.

Ireland’s national drug and alcohol treatment centre, with facilities in The Glen, Mary St, Mallow, Midleton and Ahiohill, recently published its first quarter 2026 report, which shows increasing demand compared to last year. A total of 409 clients accessed services in the south west, covering Cork and Kerry, during Q1 2026. While overall client numbers are slightly lower compared to Q1 2025, engagement with family supports has increased significantly year-on-year.

The region recorded 390 referrals and 148 completed assessments, with average group retention high at 86% and up to 96% in some groups, among the highest rates in the country.

Family support services have expanded notably compared to last year, alongside targeted initiatives such as the Genio programme for Traveller women.

In the south west, a total of 409 individuals presented for support in Q1 2026, with a gender breakdown of 60% male and 40% female.

Alcohol remained the predominant drug of choice at 52%, followed by cocaine at 27%, cannabis at 12%, benzodiazepines at 7%, and heroin at 3%. In addition to individual supports, services in the South-West provided assistance to 31 families, supported 23 members of the Traveller community, and worked with 15 children.

Pauline McKeown, CEO of Coolmine Therapeutic Community, said that a rise in people seeking treatment for cocaine use across Ireland was “deeply concerning”.

“It highlights how widespread and normalised cocaine has become across our communities.”