Time to act: Labour supports Oireachtas Committee on Drug Use recommendations

Time to act: Labour supports Oireachtas Committee on Drug Use recommendations

• Landmark report by Oireachtas drugs committee recommendations welcomed
• We need a policy shift to reduce stigma of drug addiction and improve health system response

Labour Senator Marie Sherlock, a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Drug Use, has welcomed the publication of the Committee's interim report as a landmark moment, following months of deliberation.

Senator Sherlock said:

"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. 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. 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.

Senator Sherlock also highlighted that Labour, particularly Aodhán Ó Riordáin MEP, have long advocated for decriminalisation and a health-led approach to drug addiction. She welcomed the committee's recommendation to repeal Section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1997, which would remove criminal sanctions for possession of drugs for personal use.

"It's time to take drug use out of the courts and focus on supporting people who need help. Criminalising, shaming, and stigmatising those in addiction only entrenches their struggles. By repealing Section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, we can finally begin to treat drug addiction for what it is - a public health issue. We must provide people with the care and compassion they need, not criminal records that dehumanise and block their path to recovery.

"This report provides a clear path forward. Now, we need the political will to implement it. Labour will fully support these recommendations, and we urge all parties to do the same. It's time to end the criminalisation of personal drug use and start putting people's health and well-being first."