One of the city’s most experienced anti-drug campaigners has slammed the very suggestion of relaxing Ireland’s drug laws.
Former Lord Mayor Christy Burke was speaking as the recommendation makes its way to the Justice Minister's desk.
Faced with a serious drug problem at the turn of the Millennium, Portugal decriminalised the possession of small amounts of cannabis, cocaine and heroin.
It’s still illegal to have and take these drugs over there, but the courts treat the cases like minor offences. And instead of handing down custodial sentences, offenders are fined or forced to get addition treatment.
A few months ago, three members of the Oireachtas Justice Committee travelled to Portugal to take a closer look at their system. And they’re now preparing to recommend our own Government take a similar approach.
But Former Lord Mayor Christy Burke, who works tirelessly to help addicts in the city, doesn’t think it’ll work, saying "that to me is a complete ridiculous suggestion."
"There should be better rehabilitation for addicts to get them off drugs, rather than announcing that we should legalise", he added.
If implemented, the Committee believes the changes would free up Garda resources and allow them target traffickers and dealers. The recommendation is contained in a report due to be handed into the Justice Minister.
