Drug Abuse in Republic of Ireland

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

Problem Statement

The purpose of this study was to examine the drug abuse among the Irish population and analyze factors that may contribute to or influence Irish drug abuse. To obtain prevalence rates for drug illegal as cannabis, ecstasy, cocaine, heroin etc. in Ireland.

Aims and Objectives

The aim of the report is to examine the drug abuse among Irish people and to obtain prevalence rates for drug illegal as cannabis, ecstasy, cocaine, heroin etc. Respondents were asked about the prevalence over their lives (they used a drug ever), under prevalence of last year (recent use) and last month prevalence (current use). To find out what are the most commonly used drugs used by the young generation in Ireland. To have a greater knowledge, understanding and clarity on the dangers of drug abuse promoted in society. What are the measures to reduce illicit drug supply? What are the measures to enable people with drug problem treatment as well as support for others back into society?

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

Theoretical Framework

Like many countries around the world, is an enormous challenge inappropriate use of drugs in Ireland always. While cannabis remains the most used drug in Ireland, in terms of harm to humans and the community of heroin is at the most impact. A study initiated by the Committee National Advisory to consider how much opiate use in Ireland. Currently there are around 6400 people of drug abuse by methadone medical maintenance treatment.

A large proportion of the young and homeless people in the country are drug addicts. Some of them are forsaken from their parents and others are habitual of leaving their houses (Peter 2000, 132). Poverty has also been one of the problems since the times of Great Potato Famine from 1845-1849 and the recession in 1980. In the year 1985, around 25% of children lived in poor households, however, this number dropped to 6.5% in 2001. The high poverty level in Ireland can be attributed to the existence of high fertility rate (Biagini 2010, 102).

Morphine, Heroin, and Cocaine

Morphine, a derivative from opium, was introduced in the early 1800s, and was originally used in surgeries and as a pain reliever. As doctors and researchers realized that morphine was highly addictive, they turned to another drug to treat the addiction, cocaine. The United States' first major cocaine epidemic was seen between the 1880s and the 1920s. Cocaine was obviously not the cure for morphine addiction but was seen for many more years as a cure for other medical ailments. This drug, and a few others, were marketed and sold by leading retailers. Heroin was another drug that became popular for its medicinal use. It was identified as another treatment for morphine addiction as well as marketed as a sedative and cough suppressant. The name heroin was actually a trade name given to the drug by Bayer and Company when it began selling heroin commercially. The drug heroin was thought to be not addictive and ...