The recent rise of heroin use in Cork City is one which should concern us all. The social and economic implications of a heroin epidemic in Cork City would have a devastating effect on communities as well as the local economy. We in Sinn Féin believe that this issue needs immediate attention NOW. We cannot allow the problem get any worse before acting.

All stakeholders must start working together to formulate a comprehensive and holistic approach which will provide practical solutions. As part of this process we are holding a series of public meetings in Cork City titled ‘Heroin in our Communities – Formulating a community response’. The first of these meetings will take place on Wednesday 15th of July at 7.30pm in the Terence McSwiney Community College, Knocknaheeny.

Working together we have an opportunity to try and stem the growth in heroin before it is too late.