52% surge in addicts seeking help

CASES of drug addicts seeking treatment and rehabilitation in Ireland have soared by 52% over the past six years, according to research.

Figures released by the Health Research Board (HRB) show the number of people seeking help jumped from 5,167 in 2005 to 7,878 last year.

Opiates, such as heroin, were the most common drugs — used by six out of 10 wanting treatment — with 21% addicted to cannabis and 11% hooked on cocaine.