Rising Cocaine Addiction Grips Ireland’s Capital, Health Board Data Shows
Dublin: Dublin is facing an alarming surge in cocaine addiction, with new data from the Health Research Board (HRB) revealing a steep increase in hospitalisations related to cocaine use over the past six years. Cases have risen dramatically, from 173 reported in 2017 to 4,923 in 2022. Dublin’s city centre has emerged as a primary hub for cocaine, with numerous homes in the south inner city reported as distribution points. Schools and playgrounds are now often impacted by the drug’s prevalence, and people across all demographics, especially young adults aged 20 to 39, are reportedly falling into addiction.
High Rates of Female Addiction
The HRB data points to a growing trend of cocaine dependency among women. Last year alone, 1,387 women sought addiction treatment, compared to just 284 in 2017. Addiction counsellors stress the need for targeted recovery programs for women, who face unique challenges in treatment, often complicated by issues of sexual exploitation and hesitation to seek help.
Sinn Féin Councillor Daithí Doolan voiced concern over the toll of drug addiction on families and communities, noting that the demand for treatment services has surged tenfold since 2010. While Ireland has one of the highest drug seizure rates globally, estimates suggest that actual consumption may be ten times greater.
The Role of Organised Crime
The cocaine trade in Dublin is heavily influenced by organised crime. The HRB report identifies numerous groups from Algeria, Morocco, and Europe, as well as religiously affiliated factions, as prominent players. These gangs are often connected to larger European networks, and some are believed to be led by recent arrivals to the country. South Dublin, in particular, has become a base for local gangs, which now extend their reach nationwide and hold connections to major UK and European crime syndicates.
One of the most notorious is the Kinahan cartel, originally Dublin-based and now operating internationally in countries like Spain, the Netherlands, and the UAE. The Kinahan gang, well-known for its involvement in cocaine trafficking, has earned a reputation as a formidable force in the European drug trade. Though law enforcement intervenes when turf disputes escalate into violence, calls for more proactive action continue as Dublin grapples with this deepening crisis.
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