An Garda Siochána Implements Health Referral Scheme For First Time Drug Offenders

Clare FM · Sep 2, 2026 · 17m

We begin today’s show by looking at the launch of a new Health Referral Scheme, giving Gardaí the option to refer eligible first-time offenders caught with small quantities of drugs for personal use to the HSE, rather than prosecuting them. The Government says it represents a shift towards a health-led approach, but critics question whether the scheme will reach those most affected by addiction, particularly people with previous convictions. To discuss how the scheme could work in practice, and whether it goes far enough, Alan Morrissey was joined by Michael Lacey, a Lisdoonvarna native and…