Two more graduates from Meath Drugs Court programme

Two more graduates of the Meath Drugs Court initiative passed on Thursday.

The scheme which was recently established provides offenders with a “second chance in life” and was described by Judge Eirinn McKiernan as “an essential and positive development for the community.”

She congratulated and presented the first two graduates with certificates at Trim District Court early in May.

The second such ceremony took place at the court on Thursday with two more graduates having successfully completed the programme. One of the graduates on Thursday was described at a previous court as involved in “low level street dealing” and addicted to cannabis. Charges against him were struck out by the Judge.

Others admitted to the programme were put back for updated reports from the Probation Service to 3rd September next. It was reported that most were doing well on the programme, while one participant was given a third and last chance to engage.

Judge McKiernan warned him it was his choice if he wanted to gain a conviction for sale or supply of drugs.

The Probation Service is one of several services connected with the court that are involved in delivering the programme, along with court staff, Garda and MCDAR (Meath Community Drug and Alcohol Response) which is a confidential community service providing a range of services to individuals and community experiencing difficulties with substance misuse and addiction.

Judge McKiernan took the opportunity on Thursday to compliment the members of MCDAR on their hard work in regard to the scheme. She remarked “young people are very lucky to avail of that service.”

She also thanked the Court Probation Officer for all his hard work on the project.

A member of MCDAR organisation at the first graduation told that the project allowed those taking part to avoid the constant barrier that a conviction can form and open a way to a bright future.

Judge McKiernan on that occasion said that drugs were a "driver of a health crisis, a catalyst for social disruption, an economic burden and immense general suffering and profound emotional, physical and financial devastation to spouses, children and families.”

As a result of the establishment of the Drugs Court people "are getting the support and help to overcome their addiction and get a second chance in life."

- Funded by the CRS.