‘Spiralling’ drug issues impacting rural Offaly

Concerns over rising drug use and its impact on communities in Offaly were raised at a recent Offaly County Council meeting, with councillors warning of a “spiralling” crisis affecting families across the county.

Cllr Hughie Egan raised the issue of increasing drug use and rising drug debts at a recent meeting of Offaly County Council.

"What's going on out there is shocking. I'm aware of the consequences that it's having on families, and it needs to be highlighted," he said.

Many of the councillors shared their own experiences attending the funerals of young people who have died from drug overdose, or by suicide due to the pressure of being in debt due to drug use.

Cllr Audrey Hennessy Kennedy said the issue has become "an every-day occurrence", and called for training for councillors so that they could learn how best to support members of their community who are struggling with drug-related issues.

Cllr Aoife Masterson noted that people didn't realise the impact drugs can have on their future.

"There's a huge lack of understanding of what is a Class A substance. They don't realise how much it can impact things like visas for J1s or future job opportunities. It's not an age issue or a class issues, it impacts every single part of society.

"I ask that we don't just look at what's there [in terms of services], but what they have in other countries, and what could be there."

Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council Cllr John Leahy emphasised the "pure fear" that is caused by drug debts and the threats of drug dealers.

"There's a huge shift in society, it's spiralling deeper and deeper. If you go into a pub, you'll see groups of people going to the bathroom. It's not hidden anymore.

"The level of pure fear that's out there [in relation to drug intimidation]. Families are selling tractors and pieces of land to pay off drug debts, and 9 out of 10 people would pay it and say nothing. It has a huge impact on our society."