Let’s declare an opioid emergency - Mind-altering narcotics

It is common knowledge that Ireland has a problem with the over-consumption of alcohol. What may be so well known is that we also have a problem with mind-altering narcotics, in particular, cocaine, heroin and prescription painkillers.

Earlier this week, Garda chief superintendent Christy Mangan warned that the country is “loaded” with cocaine and the situation is getting worse. His assessment correlates with Garda figures released last February indicating a sharp rise in the quantity of cocaine being trafficked into the country, replicating trends across Europe.