‘Prescription drug abuse needs tackled urgently’ – Newry MLA
SDLP Assembly Member Justin McNulty has called for urgent action on drug abuse across the North including prescription drugs following comments made by Coroner Joe McCrisken.
McNulty told Newry Times, “The abuse of prescription medication is an epidemic devastating and terrorising families in our community.
“Statutory and voluntary agencies are doing all they can to hold back the tide but without strategic and resourced support from government, they are fighting a losing battle.
“Local services are stretched. People are dying. Families and communities are being plunged into grief. Coroner Joe McCrisken’s comments clearly come from a place of genuine frustration and sincere concern – he should be listened to.
He continued, “Families devastated by drugs who have been in touch with my office are asking why parties can’t get in a room to sort out their political differences so we can get a government that prioritises tackling this epidemic and saves lives. They should be listened to.
“This week I have met with a range of statutory agencies across the sector dealing with the drugs epidemic which is crippling our society. I met with local Police Chiefs, Health Officials and representatives of the community and voluntary sector including Davina’s Ark and Addiction NI.
“These agencies are working on the coal face and see at first hand the real cost of drug addition to families and communities locally,” the local MLA added.
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