Drugs Court gives Jason chance of rehabilitation

THE last year is the longest period of time Jason has been out of prison in the last 25 years.

But since September 2001 the 43-year-old has kept his nose clean. He has also beaten his addiction to alcohol and illegal drugs.

Yesterday, Jason graduated from the Drugs Court a novel initiative which directs addicts towards treatment rather than jail.

He received strong praise yesterday from the head of the court, Judge Gerard Haughton.

"If anything is evidence of whether the Drug Court is worthwhile then this case is. He has climbed Mount Everest."

Judge Haughton said Jason had been in trouble with the law since he was very young.

He spent much of his childhood, up to the age of 15, in the institutions of Letterfrack and St Joseph's in Clonmel.

Soon after getting out of St Joseph's he was given his first sentence. Since then, he has been in and out of jail.

Last September, Jason was given a chance and was referred to the Drug Court.

"September 2001 until now is the longest time he has not been in prison in 25 years," said Judge Haughton to applause at the Dublin District Court yesterday.

Judge Haughton said he took particular pleasure in giving Jason his certificate for successfully completing his programme with the court.

Jason, who is now doing a computers and business course, said he hoped to remain drug free and stay away from drink and stay in contact with the Aisling treatment centre.

Jason was one of three graduates from the Drug Court yesterday, bringing the total to date to five.

Judge Haughton said the graduates were not being cut loose without any support. All five needed to sign on to a post-graduate programme for at least 12 months and keep in contact with probation officers and health and education workers.

He noted that the criminal charges against the three can be re-entered within the 12 months if this is not complied with.

Commending the three graduates, Judge Haughton said: "One thing I've learned in the last 18 months is the difficulty coming to terms with and overcoming problems of drug abuse. The participants really did superhuman work."

The Drug Court brings together key agencies such as the Probation Service, Department of Education, health boards and gardaí.

Judge Haughton called for an extension of the pilot programme, which is currently being evaluated by the Department of Justice.