O’Shea Welcomes Introduction of New Health-Led Pathway for Personal Drug Possession

Cork North West TD says new approach will help connect people with support and treatment

Fine Gael TD for Cork North West, Deputy John Paul O’Shea, has welcomed the commencement of a new health-led pathway for people found in possession of drugs for personal use.

The new Health Referral Scheme began this week and provides eligible people with an opportunity to engage with health and support services following a referral, rather than their first interaction being solely through the criminal justice system.

Deputy O’Shea, who was a member of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Drug Use, said the new approach represents an important step in recognising the health and social issues associated with drug use and ensuring that people who may be struggling with substance use can be connected with appropriate supports.

“I welcome the commencement of this new health-led pathway for personal drug possession. We know that drug use can have a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities, and we must continue to take a strong and comprehensive approach to tackling the harm caused by drugs.

“At the same time, where a person is found in possession of drugs for their own personal use, it is important that we have a pathway which can connect that person with the health services and supports they may need.

“Early intervention and access to appropriate treatment can make a real difference in helping people address substance use and prevent further harm. This is not about being soft on drugs. We must continue to take a firm approach to tackling the supply of illegal drugs and the criminal networks that profit from them. Rather, this is about making sure that where someone needs help, we have a system capable of directing them towards that help at an early stage.

“Having served on the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Drug Use, I have seen first-hand the importance of taking a comprehensive approach to Ireland’s drug policy, including prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and harm reduction. The introduction of this health-led pathway is an important development, and I believe it can complement our wider efforts to tackle the serious harm caused by drugs in communities across the country.”

Deputy O’Shea said adequate resources and treatment services must be available to ensure the new pathway can operate effectively.

“The success of this approach will ultimately depend on people being able to access timely and appropriate services when they are referred. We must therefore continue investing in addiction services, mental health supports and community-based services, including in rural communities, so that people are not simply referred on, but can actually receive the help they need.

“I will continue to monitor the implementation of the scheme and ensure that the experience of individuals, families, communities and frontline services is reflected as we continue to strengthen Ireland’s response to drug use.”