Drug abuse: Focus on health is better than punishment, Oireachtas committee hears

Senior police officer from Portugal among those who addressed the Oireachtas committee on drugs use

The Oireachtas committee on drugs use also heard from Mariam Jashi, a former deputy health minister of Georgia, on Thursday. Picture: Oireachtas.ie

Drug policy designed around health, dignity, rights, and practical outcomes rather than on punishment alone is most effective according to international evidence, the Oireachtas committee on drugs use has heard.

Criminalisation often deepens stigma, discrimination, and barriers to care, while rights-based and health-led approaches can open the door to better outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.