Open drug use will 'surge' if laws changed, claims top garda

Justin Kelly, Assistant Commissioner, Organised and Serious Crime. Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos

Open drug use will “surge” if Ireland decides to liberalise its laws, the Garda’s top drug officer has warned.

Assistant Commissioner Justin Kelly said the Citizens’ Assembly on Drug Use — which is examining Irish drug laws and policies — should understand the “full picture” of the consequences of decriminalising or legalising drug use or supply.