'Tip of the iceberg' warning as Waterford among highest drug convictions in Ireland

Waterford has been ranked among the highest in the country for drug offence convictions, with new figures prompting a stark warning about drug use in Ireland.

A total of 160 people were convicted of drug-related offences in Waterford in 2025, ranking the county ninth in the District Court system.

The figure marks a steep rise on the previous year with Waterford recording a 17% increase, even as some other areas saw numbers fall.

Nationwide, 5,440 people were convicted of drug offences in 2025, up from 5,202 in 2024, with Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú warning the figures are “only the tip of the iceberg of a broader rise in drug use in Ireland that must be confronted head on”.

Dublin recorded the highest number of convictions at 2,071, followed by Cork (504), Clonmel (281) and Portlaoise (248), with Waterford also featuring in the top ten alongside Limerick, Mallow, Tullamore, Tralee and Galway.

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The data shows that while some areas saw declines, others recorded sharp increases, including Tullamore, Portlaoise, Clonmel and Waterford.

Ní Mhurchú said the disparity in conviction levels across the country warrants further investigation, adding that drugs remain a major concern raised by parents, community leaders, pub owners and gardaí.

In Waterford, almost all convictions were for possession of drugs and possession with intent to supply, according to the figures.

Drug convictions across Ireland remain well above pre-pandemic levels, with possession and supply offences making up the majority of cases.

The MEP has called for the swift rollout of the Government’s National Drugs Strategy 2026–2029, as well as increased investment in detox beds, higher fines for casual drug use, and community-based sanctions.