The Citizens Assembly on Drugs (Ireland) – summary of findings and recommendations

A Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use Was established in early 2023 to examine the legislation and policies in Ireland in an effort to reduce the harmful impacts of illicit drugs on people, their families, communities and wider Irish society. The workshop presentation outlines the work of the Assembly and the recommendations contained in the report and an up-to-date outline of the implementation of those recommendations.

The assembly consisted of 100 people, including 99 members of the general public and one independent chairperson. The 99 members of the general public were selected at random in accordance with the most recent census data to ensure the people selected were nationally representative. A number of experts in the drug treatment and policy field were also selected to provide expert support to the citizens.

The members of the Assembly were asked to take into consideration the lived experience of people impacted by drugs use, as well as their families and communities, and to look at international best practice in an effort to reduce stigma and drug related deaths.

Following an extensive consultative process that occurred from April to October 2023 the process produced a report which was published and launched by the Minister responsible for Drug Strategy, Hildegarde Naughton, in January 2024. The report contained 36 recommendations It also outlined the work of the 100-member Assembly over six months.

The wide-ranging recommendations included a decriminalised model to replace criminal sanctions and a change to a comprehensive health-led response. It also recommended a dedicated Cabinet Committee on Drugs, chaired by the Taoiseach (Prime Minister); prioritisation of supports for marginalised groups and disadvantaged communities; a greater focus on prevention and recovery and greater supports for families and children impacted by drug use; an expansion of harm reduction responses in both the prisons and communities; Supply reduction, supporting the continued efforts of the Gardaí while strengthening the response to drug-related intimidation and violence by organised crime groups.

Earlier this year a committee was set up to look at implementing the recommendations contained in the report.