Rathcoffey's Conor Harris Says The Stats Don't Lie When It Comes To Addiction

Thursday, 18 July 2024 10:45

By Hannah Kelly

Image via The Irish Times. Photograph: Damien Eagers

It follows yesterday's report that the Rutland Centre saw a significant rise in individuals presenting with multiple addictions

Conor Harris, from Rathcoffey, has said the stats do not lie when it comes to addiction.

This follows the latest report from the Rutland Centre, Ireland's leading addiction treatment service.

The report saw a dramatic surge in the number of people seeking treatment for addiction, along with a 14% increase in individuals presenting with multiple addictions.

Speaking on this morning's Kildare Today along with gambling addiction counsellor, Tony O'Reilly, Conor Harris spoke on addiction struggles he sees day in and day out.

Yesterday, Harris celebrated being five years sober, having previously struggled with cocaine addiction.

He now does public speeches on drug awareness, and often does talks at schools.

Harris said the problem centres within the mind of the addict, which is what services need to focus on when it comes to treatment.

He also commented on how easy it is to get drugs, especially cocaine, saying it is in "every corner of the country.

"If I made one phone call, I could have drugs to my house within five to ten minutes".

According to the European Drug Report 2023, Ireland now has the highest cocaine usage in the European Union.

For those impacted by addiction, contact numbers are listed below:

Rutland Centre: 01 494 6358

HSE Drugs and Alcohol Helpline: 1800 459 459 or email helpline@hse.ie

Cuan Mhuire: 059 86 31090