Irish gardaí can now refer first-time drug possession offenders to HSE
A new Health Referral Scheme lets gardaí send first-time drug possession offenders to health services instead of prosecution. The scheme launches Tuesday.
Gardaí given power to divert first-time drug offenders to health services
From Tuesday, gardaí in Ireland have the option to refer people caught with drugs for personal use to the health system rather than the criminal justice system, the Irish Times reports.
The Health Referral Scheme allows the Garda to direct first-time offenders to appropriate health supports where the offence involves simple possession for personal use. The move is intended to encourage early engagement with services, offer practical advice and reduce the long-term consequences of a first possession offence.
Rather than pursuing a prosecution or issuing an adult caution, gardaí can opt to refer the individual to the scheme. To be eligible, the offender must admit to possessing a controlled drug for personal use at the time of the offence and agree to participate.
A Garda spokesman said referrals would be made in line with the force's "internal policy". Eligible individuals will be given details on how to proceed, which involves contacting the HSE and booking an appointment with a Saor practitioner — a specially trained healthcare or social care worker.
The scheme forms part of a wider strategy to reduce drug-related harm, support earlier access to services and keep enforcement focused on those involved in the sale, supply and exploitation of illegal drugs.
Eamon Keenan, national clinical lead in addiction services with the HSE, welcomed the initiative. Keenan said it demonstrated "the value of health and justice services working together" to deliver a more effective, health-led response. "By engaging people early and connecting them with appropriate supports, we can reduce harm, support better outcomes for individuals and deliver a clear public benefit for families and communities," he said.
Minister of State for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor described the scheme as "an important shift in how we respond to first-time possession of drugs for personal use". She said it provided "a more practical, health-led approach, recognising that people may need information, support and early intervention".
Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan said the scheme would give gardaí "another proportionate option where a person is eligible for referral, while maintaining a firm focus on tackling drug dealing, organised crime and the serious harm caused by the illegal drugs trade". He added that referral to health supports "may be a more effective response" in appropriate cases and could help reduce the long-term impact of a first offence on a person's life.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly acknowledged that drug use "remains illegal and is a serious danger to the health of all users", but said having a mechanism to steer people towards support services rather than into the criminal justice system was "a welcome step in tackling the overall issue of drug use in Ireland".
Source: Irish Times