A Sligo Leitrim TD and Minister responsible for drugs strategy says Gardai should have to power to caution those with severe drug addictions, rather than prosecute them.
Frank Feighan says existing laws relating to cannabis which have been in place since 2020, should be extended to other drugs like cocaine and ecstasy as its in the ‘public interest’ to avoid prosecuting those with serious mental health or addiction issues.
A high-level task force set up to look at mental health and addiction within the criminal justice system has recommended Gardai be given the power to caution for such drugs, provided they are for personal use.
Minister Feighan has told the Irish Independent that supports the Government supports a strategy of a health-led approach to drugs.
