Cocaine abuse in Ireland increases, research shows

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by Change | 22 Oct 2008

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The number of people who have ever taken cocaine in Ireland has increased to 5.3 per cent between 2002 and 2007, up from three per cent, a new study reveals.

The number of people who have ever taken cocaine in Ireland has increased to 5.3 per cent between 2002 and 2007, up from three per cent, a new study reveals.

Nearly half (49 per cent) of cocaine users obtain the drug from family and friends, up from the previous figure of 33 per cent.

The Drug Prevalence Survey: Cocaine Results was released by John Curran, minister of state responsible for the National Drugs Strategy.

He said the figures will allow a targeted programme of cocaine treatment to be implemented more effectively.

"Apart from damaging themselves, users cause social and economic harm to their families and to the communities that bear the brunt of the behaviour and criminal activity associated with the supply and use of cocaine," Mr Curran added.

Earlier this month, research commissioned by the National Advisory Committee on Drugs found that drug treatment substantially reduces individuals' drug use and their involvement in crime, as well as improving their employment outcomes.

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