Drug-hit areas feel ‘hopeless’ over fear of gangs

There is a sense of “utter hopelessness” in communities intimidated by gangs, local drug groups have told the Oireachtas.

And the problem has been compounded by government cutbacks, which have “devastated” community services.

Anna Quigley of Citywide Drugs Crisis Campaign told the Oireachtas Justice Committee that both long-term issues — such as tackling economic disadvantage — and immediate issues — such as diverting young people from gangs — needed to happen simultaneously.