Retired judge fears potential impact of opiates like fentanyl

Olann Kelleher is concerned by reports that fentanyl could be used as a replacement for heroin

Olann Kelleher said that because drugs such as fentanyl, are both cheap and highly potent, they could have a terrible impact on the street. Picture: David Keane

A retired Cork judge has expressed concern at the potential impact toxic synthetic opiates would have if they are used by drug dealers to fill any future gap in the heroin market.

Olann Kelleher of Anglesea District Court said that because these drugs, such as fentanyl, are both cheap and highly potent, they could have a terrible impact on the street.