The Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use has held its inaugural meeting in the Grand Hotel in Malahide, marking the start of the “most extensive, engaged discussion on the issue of drug use” in Ireland’s history. Over two days, and in subsequent meetings until October, more than 90 members will hear from a variety of national and international speakers on the legislative, policy, and operational changes the state should consider to reduce the impact of illegal drug use on individuals, families, communities and wider society. Ultimately, the assembly chairman Paul Reid said the body would move towards a consensus on recommendations. “This is a safe process for deliberation,” he added.
