Irish Examiner view: Citizens' Assembly asked vital questions for future good of society
![Irish Examiner view: Citizens' Assembly asked vital questions for future good of society Irish Examiner view: Citizens' Assembly asked vital questions for future good of society](/cms_media/module_img/7623/3811588_1_articlesmall_089Citizens_20Assembly_90677003.jpg)
Paul Reid and assembly members at the first Citizens' Assembly session on drug use back in April this year. Picture: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie
When the 99 members of the Citizens' Assembly look back on the work they have been undertaking since April to contemplate one of the most demanding and complex issues facing modern democratic societies — the extent and influence of drug use and how the State might legislate for it — they can reflect on the important service they have provided.
Irrespective of their recommendations on “balancing the risks” between changing Ireland’s drug laws and retaining them in their current form, which is unlikely suggests the mood music, they have fulfilled a formidable task listening to 150 experts and contemplating often contradictory opinions on law, health, crime, politics, and public behaviour.
The chairman of the Assembly, former HSE chief executive Paul Reid, says he has been amazed by the capacity of his members to work their way through the arguments as they consider what legislative, policy and operational approaches could be taken to "significantly reduce the harmful impacts of illicit drugs on individuals, families, communities, and wider Irish society."
That there is an ever-increasing impact is apparent to everyone, and is reinforced every day by news stories of police activity against gangs, and of the toll of addiction which is recounted in countless court cases and inquests.
Mr Reid, speaking to the
today, says he believes there is a “strong mood for change” among members and that this weekend’s sixth public meeting, where recommendations will be considered and voted upon, will give general guidance on the direction it would like the Government to take rather than set out the details.This lay persons’ approach is wise, and not only because there will be political consequences to any change in the current regimes. There are likely to be significant costs too. A report based on the recommendations will be submitted by December to the Oireachtas and the Government for consideration and further examination.
For now, it would be wrong to attempt to second guess the outcomes. There is plenty of time for debate and analysis once the proposals are tabled. We can, however, thank everyone who has participated and given their time to consider one of the most important issues that we will face together for many years to come.