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Reports indicate a staggering 80% rise in women revealing issues with crack cocaine addiction.
Dublin is currently facing a significant crisis concerning crack cocaine, as highlighted by local drug counselors.
The demand for treatment related to this substance has surged dramatically in the Republic of Ireland, with cases blossoming from 173 in 2017 to a staggering 1,201 in 2023, reflecting a 594% increase according to Health Research Board (HRB) statistics.
One individual shared his experiences, noting that his journey into addiction began in his 20s after moving to the city.
“My path shifted from enjoying a few beers to experimenting with ecstasy, and ultimately I found myself struggling with heroin and crack cocaine,” recounted Ferghal Connolly.
‘Communities on their knees’
According to Daithi Doolan, the escalating crack cocaine issue has reached a critical stage.
Crack is the term commonly used for a smokable solid form of cocaine.
Doolan, affiliated with the South Inner City Drug and Alcohol Partnership, stressed that addiction permeates numerous households across Dublin.
“This is indeed a crisis,” he emphasized, highlighting the alarming frequency of addiction incidents, even at schools and community spaces.
As a chosen representative from Sinn Féin, Doolan expressed concern over the capability of communities to manage the rampant drug use.
“The intimidation stemming from drug-related activities is affecting individuals, families, and entire neighborhoods, leaving them feeling vulnerable to drug dealers,” he noted.
‘Drugs are all around’
Dublin has long battled heroin within its inner-city areas.
Those working on the front lines of addiction believe a shortage of heroin—partly influenced by geopolitical shifts in Afghanistan—has catalyzed a spike in crack cocaine use.
In 2023, approximately 4,923 individuals sought treatment for cocaine, utilizing either its powdered or crack form as their primary concern.
Cheryl Kelly, an addiction counselor with the Donore Community Drug and Alcohol Team, emphasized the necessity for gender-specific services catering to women’s unique and challenging needs.
“Women often find themselves in predicaments involving coerced sex work or harboring fears regarding social services, compounded by a considerable amount of shame and stigma connected to their drug use,” she explained.
HRB figures reveal a rise in women seeking treatment for cocaine-related issues, increasing from 284 in 2017 to 1,387 in 2023.
Of those reporting issues primarily associated with crack cocaine, nearly half were women, with just over 5% being employed and a median age of 39.
‘A need for female-only spaces’
Ms. Kelly stressed the importance of establishing dedicated initiatives for women.
“Many face significant shame due to their roles as caregivers for children or family members,” she stated.
“My involvement in the community drugs and alcohol team was driven by the need to create a pilot program specifically for women.”
“Women are unlikely to access services where they encounter individuals who may have intimidated them in public spaces, so the establishment of female-only environments is critically needed for their safety and comfort.”
‘No border that defines addiction’
Alan Kinsella mentioned that his program has consistently filled capacity.
As a case worker within the Coolmine Therapeutic Community located in the city center, he commented, “We have a specialized program tailored to individuals facing cocaine issues, whether it be in powdered or crack form, and it has reliably maintained full enrollment.”
“The consistent demand for such a focused service underscores the pervasive nature of cocaine-related challenges, particularly within Dublin.”
Kinsella further noted, “Cocaine addiction knows no boundaries; we encounter individuals from all areas of life, including employed professionals, demonstrating that addiction can affect anyone, irrespective of their background or circumstances.”
Source
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