A modern draft National Drugs Strategy for 2026-2029, published last month by Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, is facing criticism from groups representing people affected by drug use. These groups claim the strategy is “fundamentally flawed” due to its failure to adequately address the connection between social and economic factors and drug-related harm.
Concerns Over Strategy’s Focus
Citywide, Family Addiction Recovery Ireland (FARI), and UISCE, all of whom participated in the Citizens’ Assembly on Drug Use, have jointly stated that the draft strategy contains “inappropriate and damaging assumptions.” They argue that the plan overlooks the impact of poverty and inequality on drug use and its consequences.
According to Anna Quigley, co-ordinator of Citywide, the voices of communities most impacted by drug use have been excluded from the strategy’s development. A search conducted by RTÉ News found only one instance of the word “disadvantaged” within the document, despite concerns that the worst effects of drug-related harm are concentrated in marginalized communities.
Pillars of the Plan
The draft strategy is built around five key pillars: protection from harm, provision of quality treatment services, promotion of recovery, prioritizing health supports over criminal sanctions, and preparedness for global drug threats. However, critics contend that these pillars are insufficient without addressing underlying socio-economic issues.
Concerns too extend to the future of local support structures. Ms. Quigley expressed worry that the role of Drug and Alcohol Task Forces will be determined by the HSE based on its own needs, rather than the needs of the communities they serve. She stated that the departments of Health and Justice are developing a Health Diversion Approach without consulting representatives of people who use drugs.
Mick Mason of FARI emphasized the importance of understanding the experiences of families affected by addiction, noting that the financial strain of a family member’s addiction can create a “cycle of dependency.” Andy O’Hara of UISCE argued that people who use drugs should be treated as citizens with dignity and a right to participate in policy decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the timeframe for this National Drugs Strategy?
The draft National Drugs Strategy covers the period from 2026 to 2029.
Who informed the development of the strategy?
The document was informed by trends in drug and harmful alcohol use, the recommendations of the Citizens’ Assembly on Drug Use, the previous drugs strategy, and the views of stakeholders, including Oireachtas committees.
How many drug-related deaths occurred in Ireland between 2004 and 2020?
11,086 people were recorded to have died from drug-related causes in Ireland between 2004 and 2020, according to data from the Health Research Board.
As the strategy moves forward, it remains to be seen whether these concerns will be addressed through the planned public consultation and engagement process. A possible next step could be revisions to the draft based on feedback from stakeholders, or a continuation of the current approach despite the objections raised.
