Big problems in small towns: Rural Ireland has a problem with cocaine

Ann Murphy reports on how cocaine has moved from being a problem that was largely confined to more urban areas to become an increasing scourge in towns and villages across the country.

A line of cocaine is now a central part of any night out or celebration in Ireland, urban and rural, according to users, gardaí, academics and addiction counsellors. Picture: Maura Hickey

Phone? Check. Bank card? Check. Keys? Check. Cocaine? Check.

A typical checklist for many people as the country celebrates St Patrick’s weekend properly for the first time in three years.