Ahern backs off immigrant crack use remarks

DRUGS Strategy Minister Noel Ahern has toned down comments suggesting the use of crack cocaine in Ireland is limited to immigrant groups.

Questioned in the Dáil last week about the prevalence of the drug, Mr Ahern responded: “While it is obtainable in Dublin, thus far it has been largely confined to certain community groups. It is an open question as to whether it stays within those community groups or spreads out among native Dubliners.”

He stressed that while crack cocaine was “a particularly lethal and awful drug”, it had not become “a major problem” in this country.

“The situation is being carefully monitored and while it may be in use within immigrant communities, individuals from such groups could easily and rapidly begin dealing it to the local population,” he added.

Yet while research in this area is limited, what studies do exist suggest the problem is by no means confined to immigrant users.

Research published by the Government’s own National Drugs Advisory Committee in April last year found that, of a sample of 355 homeless people, almost one in five had used the drug at some point. One in ten reported recent use. The vast majority of people involved were Irish.

Asked by the Irish Examiner if he really believed no Irish people were using the drug, Mr Ahern appeared to alter his position.

“I do not think that the crack cocaine problem is limited to any particular community. Furthermore, I accept that a potential danger exists that the use of crack cocaine could spread rapidly. I intend to ensure that any necessary steps are taken to address increased threats, should they arise.”

However, while there are Irish users of the drug, gardaí believe the vast majority of dealers are from West African communities and operating in Dublin’s north inner city.