Louise Walsh
An experienced counsellor believes that random drug testing in the workplace should be extended to the Dáil after a TD suggested cocaine is used in Leinster House.
Speaking in the Dáil on Wednesday, former Labour leader Alan Kelly raised concerns that cocaine is viewed as socially acceptable across Ireland.
Mr Kelly said “cocaine is everywhere in society. It’s in every corner of Ireland. It’s in every sporting club. I imagine it’s in here,” in reference to Leinster House.
The Tipperary TD also highlighted the Health Research Board report published this week revealing an increase in cocaine addiction across the country.
The report said that 13,104 drug treatment cases were recorded last year, the highest on record, with a sharp increase in cocaine use, particularly among women.
Figures released showed a 228 per cent increase since 2017 in the number of cases where cocaine was the main problem drug. Powder cocaine increased by 197 per cent, and crack cocaine increased by 594 per cent.
Drug counsellor Marie Byrne said TDs should be happy to take the tests as they are the ones who make decisions around drug policies in the country.
The director of MB Now International said: "I called for these tests nearly 20 years ago when it was alleged that traces of cocaine were found in the toilets in the Dáil, but I was told it was impossible to do. Why?
"Random drug testing is policy in most big workplaces now for health and safety reasons. Our TDs make important decisions on policy, including drugs, every day and so it is important that they are not under the influence of drugs, including alcohol, when doing so. They make the biggest decisions affecting our whole country.
"If TDs weren't using drugs, then they wouldn't give a monkey's about taking random drug tests.
"Drugs aren't legal and so drug testing among those in power, male and female, should be mandatory, in my belief. The drug test could be given by an independent body or laboratory and cover detection of a wide range of drugs, including alcohol. If someone fails a drug test, maybe they can be offered help in confidence.
"I have seen people look for help this way confidentially. I do a full assessment to see how big the problem is and then develop a plan for recovery.
Ms Byrne, from Navan, Co Meath, said many accidents, claims and shoddy workmanship arise from employees or management who are suffering the after-effects of taking illegal drugs or abusing alcohol.
"Early detection is everything in a workplace so accidents are avoided. Driving machinery under the influence is dangerous and reckless.
"Loss of productivity from staff either too hungover to work properly or those who take sick leave because of their dependency are costing employers thousands," said Ms Byrne who has over 30 years experience in drug counselling and has worked with experts across Europe and consulted with the police force in Rio de Janeiro.
