Cocaine Use Rising in Wexford as Services Warn of Growing Pressure on Families and Support Systems

Wexford addiction services say cocaine use is increasing across the county, with growing concern that the drug is becoming more common in everyday social life.

Operations Manager at Aiseiri David Curtain said most people they now assess are using cocaine and demand for treatment is rising. They also warn that waiting lists are under pressure as more people seek help with addiction.

While crack cocaine is present in Ireland services say it is less widespread in Wexford than cocaine use though both remain a concern.

Cocaine use is no longer limited to urban areas and is now being seen in towns and rural communities across the county. They warn that in social settings such as pubs and nights out access to the drug is increasingly common.

Experts say not everyone who uses cocaine becomes addicted, but around one in eight people may go on to develop a dependency, leading to serious personal and financial consequences.

They also highlight growing concerns about drug-related intimidation, including threats to families over drug debts. In some cases, households have been left facing large debts and pressure from dealers, including reports of debts reaching tens of thousands of euro.

David is encouraging anyone affected by drug use or intimidation to seek help early through local addiction services, GPs, or Gardaí.