Labour Senator Marie Sherlock, a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Drug Use, says she welcomes the publication of the Committee’s interim report as a “landmark moment”, following months of deliberation.
Senator Sherlock said the report recommends a vital policy shift.
“The report sets out a clear blueprint for the decriminalisation of possession of drugs for personal use and highlights the need for a policy shift that treats drug addiction as primarily a health and social issue,” she said.
“This comes against the backdrop of Ireland’s concerning status as having the second-highest number of drug-related deaths in Europe.
“The publication of this report is an important moment.
“It builds on the recommendations of the Citizens’ Assembly and outlines in detail the key reforms needed across a range of areas — health, social services, housing, policing, community advocacy, and the prison service.
“The report recommends a vital shift in policy to reduce the stigma attached to drug addiction and to drastically improve how our health system responds to the issue.”
The report draws heavily on evidence from countries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Portugal, offering key lessons on the decriminalisation of personal drug possession.
Senator Sherlock noted that the committee’s findings are clear on what decriminalisation entails, including the need for police to issue health referrals for those caught with personal possession, and the potential challenges and implications regarding drug consumption in public places.
“As a member of the Committee, listening to evidence from around the world, it’s clear that decriminalising personal possession is not only about changing laws but changing the entire approach to how we support people who use drugs,” she said.
“The experience of countries like Portugal shows that this shift can save lives and reduce harm.
“When people are referred to health services instead of being criminalised, it opens a door to recovery and treatment instead of deepening the cycle of addiction and punishment.”
A central aspect of the recommendations focuses on addressing the deep impact of the drugs trade within local communities.
The committee stresses that issues like drug-related violence, anti-social behaviour, and intimidation will require a coordinated response involving policing, local authorities, and community organisations, alongside diversion projects.