ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND Traditionally, Northern Ireland is recognised as having a lower incidence of illicit drug use when compared with other parts of the UK; however, the problem is now regarded as increasing (Department of Health and Social Services, 1995; Northern Ireland Drugs Campaign, 1999). As with other areas of the UK, it is difficult to obtain an accurate picture of the incidence, prevalence and type of drug abuse in Northern Ireland. A variety of sources, for example, official police (Royal Ulster Constabulary – RUC) and Department of Health statistics and surveys of the general population, are used to assess changes which have occurred. Summaries of the available information for Northern Ireland are presented in Drug Strategy for Northern Ireland (Northern Ireland Drugs Campaign, 1999) and Illicit Drug Use in Northern Ireland: a handbook for professionals (Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland, 1996).
