Drugs

The latest Drugs news, features, videos and more from JOE.
Gardaí can now send first-time drug offenders to HSE instead of prosecuting them

Gardaí can now send first-time drug offenders to HSE instead of prosecuting them

The Health Referral Scheme comes into effect from today. Gardaí can now refer people caught with small amounts of drugs for personal use to the HSE rather than prosecuting them, under a new scheme coming into effect on today, September 1. The Health Referral Scheme is aimed at those over 18 who are caught in possession of a small […]

3 weeks ago

HSE finds high-risk synthetic cannabinoids in vapes sold in Irish shops

HSE finds high-risk synthetic cannabinoids in vapes sold in Irish shops

The HSE has uncovered a worrying mix of substances An investigation by the HSE’s Emerging Drug Trends Laboratory has uncovered a range of unexpected substances in vapes, vape liquids and edible products being sold across Ireland. Researchers examined 76 vape products, as well as edibles bought from shops in towns and cities and products sourced […]

1 month ago

Where Ireland ranks among Europe’s biggest cocaine users

Where Ireland ranks among Europe’s biggest cocaine users

The biggest consumers have been revealed The 2026 European Drug Report has been released, providing a comprehensive overview of Europe’s drug habits. Included in this ranking was a top 5 of the heaviest cocaine users in Europe, and Ireland does make it into one of the top spots. Meanwhile, for those wondering where the UK […]

3 months ago

HSE issues urgent drug warning ahead of Bank Holiday and festival season

HSE issues urgent drug warning ahead of Bank Holiday and festival season

Important information to know. The HSE and Northern Ireland’s Public Health Agency (PHA) have issued a joint warning for people who use drugs at festivals and in nightlife settings across the Emerald Isle this summer. As thousands of people in Ireland are expected to travel across the border in both directions to attend festivals this […]

4 months ago

It’s 10 years since Ireland legalised ketamine, meth and MDMA by mistake

It’s 10 years since Ireland legalised ketamine, meth and MDMA by mistake

Happy National Yokes Day to all who celebrate! This day 10 years ago, the Irish State accidentally made drugs such as ecstacy, ketamine and meth legal for 24 hours. The bizarre set of circumstances came into effect due to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 being deemed unconstitutional by the Irish Court of Appeal, as […]

1 year ago