Ways to reduce drug harm to be discussed by Tynwald

Wed, 25 Oct 2023

A report which makes suggestions on how the Isle of Man could minimise the harms associated with drug use, will be discussed at November Tynwald.

The Public Health Institute at Liverpool John Moore’s University (LJMU) compiled the report, following focus groups and stakeholder workshops with the general public, drug users and charities.

Several options are presented in the report as ways the Island could reduce the harm from drugs, it does not make any specific recommendations. 

In this case the term ‘harm’ refers to the overall impact on society – from health and mental wellbeing, to criminal behaviour, community issues as well as the wider impact of exploitation, violence and punitive measures in the long-term.

The approaches outlined in the report range from a reduction in the use of criminal sanctions, alternative diversionary measures at the point of arrest, deferred prosecution and regulation of cannabis.

Each of the options presented include detail on the resources and considerations required for each approach, including the education, treatment and support which it is suggested could replace initial punitive measures.

Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Jane Poole-Wilson MHK, said: “These options are not being presented as recommendations, but as well-considered approaches which Tynwald will now be able to discuss.

“This report and the upcoming discussion in Tynwald will help the Department to work with other areas of Government and partners from a range of organisations to develop policy options for the Isle of Man, which will be brought back to Tynwald next year.”

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