Personal drug use
The government has proposed a new approach to drug use, which they hope will save lives.
First time offenders will now be referred the HSE rather than An Garda Síochána when found in possession of drugs for personal use.
Those caught a second time will receive a Garda caution and those caught a third time will be brought before the courts.
The plans will be rolled out next year but critics say they don't go far enough.
Minister Catherine Byrne wants the country to stop dealing with drug users through the criminal justice system entirely.
"If it's a health problem the first time then it's a health problem the one hundredth time" Thanks @tonyduffin. People who use drugs deserve support and not punishment. Every time. #SupportDontPunish pic.twitter.com/NqUO2HGq1o
— UISCE (@myuisce) August 2, 2019
Further comments in support of decriminalisation have been made but the government insists this latest change is not a move towards legalising drugs.
The changes will take effect next summer.
