IMO to launch proposals to combat substance and alcohol abuse

The Irish Medical Organisation is calling for "sensible and workable" measures to deal with drug abuse.

Recent figures show that since the 1960's the consumption of psychoactive substances and alcohol has increased to a point where almost over one quarter of all Irish adults say they have used them recreationally.

Meanwhile, more than half of Irish adults are classified by the World Health Organisation as "harmful drinkers".

The IMO will launch its position paper on addiction and dependency services later today.