Sharp Rise in Treatment Cases
Dublin is facing a dramatic rise in crack cocaine use, with treatment cases up 594% since 2017. Health Research Board (HRB) data shows that treatment cases increased from 173 in 2017 to 1,201 in 2023.
Ferghal Connolly, who became addicted after moving to Dublin in his twenties, shared his story. “I started with a few beers, then moved on to ecstasy and other substances, eventually ending up on heroin and crack cocaine,” he explained.
Crack cocaine, a solid, smokable form of cocaine, is increasingly common in Dublin. Daithi Doolan, a representative from the South Inner City Drug and Alcohol Partnership and Sinn Féin councillor, described the situation as a crisis. He highlighted the drug’s presence in everyday spaces, saying, “It’s happening at school gates and in playgrounds,” underscoring the strain on communities.
Dublin’s long-standing heroin problem has also played a role in this shift. A heroin shortage linked to geopolitical issues in Afghanistan contributed to increased crack cocaine use. By 2023, around 4,923 people sought treatment for cocaine addiction, covering both crack and powder forms.
Women Face Unique Challenges
Cheryl Kelly, an addiction counsellor with the Donore Community Drug and Alcohol Team, stressed the need for women-specific services. Women often face distinct barriers to seeking help, including fears of forced sex work or social services intervention. Kelly highlighted the intense shame and stigma they face related to their drug use.
According to the HRB, the number of women seeking treatment for cocaine addiction rose from 284 in 2017 to 1,387 in 2023. Almost half of those with crack cocaine as their main addiction were women, with a median age of 39.
Kelly emphasized the need for safe, female-only support spaces. “They won’t engage in services if they fear running into men who have intimidated them,” she noted. Providing dedicated support for women is essential to encourage them to seek treatment.
Demand for Specialized Treatment Programs
Alan Kinsella, a caseworker at the Coolmine Therapeutic Community, reported that their dedicated program for cocaine users is consistently at capacity. “The popularity of a program focused on such a prevalent drug highlights the extent of cocaine issues in Dublin,” Kinsella said.
He also noted that addiction affects people across social classes. “We see individuals from all walks of life struggling with cocaine use, including those who are employed. There’s no distinction between the users we encounter,” he stated. This observation underscores the widespread nature of cocaine addiction in the city.