'Drugs are the real pandemic', says Kilkenny councillor

Is it time to name it for what it is the acquisition of the drug for personal consumption is in direct line with the criminal suppliers, and thus is a criminal offence,

placeholder image — Is it time to name it for what it is the acquisition of the drug for personal consumption is in direct line with the criminal suppliers, and thus is a criminal offence,

Councillor Joe Malone has described the use of illegal drugs as 'the real pandemic'.

The city councillor made the remark at a recent meeting of the Joint Policing Committee in Kilkenny following a presentation made by gardaí on the progress of their 'Drugs Ruin Lives' initiative.

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Gardaí informed those gathered that the initiative has been welcomed by many local GAA clubs who now actively host events where high-profile speakers share their experiences as former drug users.

"Some of the stories from the speakers would make the hairs stand up on your head," Cllr Malone told committee members.

"We need to see more posters warning against the dangers of drugs on areas such as the ring road and outside church gates. Drugs are the real pandemic."

Cllr Malone added that he is 'absolutely frightened that down the road we could be legalising drugs in this country'.