Press Release: Wednesday 20 May 2026
Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing, and the National Drugs Strategy welcomes increased uptake of drug treatment services following Government investment in service capacity
The Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor T.D. today welcomed the publication of the National Drug Treatment Reporting System (NDTRS) by the Health Research Board (HRB), showing an increased uptake of drug treatment services.
The NDTRS shows a record figure of 15,422 cases presenting for treatment for problem drug use, representing an increase of 16% on 2024, and a 73% increase in the annual number of cases entering treatment since the commencement of the current national drugs strategy in 2017.
Minister Murnane O’Connor welcomed the reporting of an additional 900 treatment cases in the prison service when compared to data from 2024, as further evidence of the health-led approach to drug use.
Minister Murnane O’Connor said:
“The increased demand for treatment highlights the importance of early intervention to prevent problem drug use escalating.
“The data from 2025 also highlights the need for services to be flexible in responding to new forms of problem drug use and a changing cohort of people affected. There is also a growing demand for services in rural areas and among people in employment.
“In this regard, I welcome the development of a digital self-help service to support people to reduce their drug and alcohol use.
“This is currently in development, will be operational later this year and will represent a significant step in helping people to reduce their drug or alcohol use, before addiction treatment is required.”
Treatment demand for cocaine increased sharply in 2025 compared to the increase observed between 2023 and 2024. Powder cocaine increased by 282.5% and crack cocaine increased by 906.4% over the time period (2017- 2025).
Minister Murnane O’Connor said:
“The new draft national drug strategy presents an integrated response to drug and alcohol use. It promotes health equity, by recognising that people who use drugs or alcohol in a harmful way are entitled to access healthcare services and be supported in their recovery journey regardless of social background or location. Following a recent public consultation, I look forward to working with stakeholders and the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Drugs in finalising the new strategy and bringing it to Government for approval as soon as possible.”
Minister Murnane O’Connor added:
“It is so that important people get the help they need, to better protect themselves, their loved ones and their communities. The evidence tells us that treatment for cocaine use continues to rise. This is a substance which is strongly pervasive in the nighttime economy, is in every town and village, and is used by those who are in employment.”
“I would strongly encourage anyone with concerns about their own drug use, or that of a family member or friend, to seek support from your GP, local services, to find your nearest addiction treatment facility on the interactive map, or to contact the drug and alcohol helpline on 1800 459 459.”
The Department of Health’s expenditure amounted €176m on drug services in 2025, with Budget 2026 securing further funding of €1.5m, the focus which being an increase in treatment capacity for under-served communities, in particular in rural areas.