Diversion scheme for those caught in possession of drugs to be in place by November

Health intervention to operate on discretion of gardaí

The health diversion system will operate at the discretion of gardaí, and people will be given one opportunity to avoid arrest and be diverted to a health intervention. Picture: iStock

The long-awaited diversion scheme for people caught in possession of drugs for personal use is expected to begin before November, the Irish Examiner understands.

The health diversion scheme, announced as Government policy almost six years ago, will operate on an “administrative” basis by gardaí under rules agreed with the Director of Public Prosecutions.