1. Influencing Drug Policy:
Making the case for Medically Supervised Injection Centres in Dublin
Lisbon Addictions 2017
Tony Duffin
CEO
Ana Liffey Drug Project

2. What is the current situation in Ireland with Supervised Injecting?
Public injecting occurs to greater or lesser degrees in areas across Ireland.
In Dublin City, based on data, we conservatively estimate that 400 people inject in the public domain in any given month, but this number is likely to be higher.
The Irish Government has introduced the Misuse of Drugs (Supervised Injecting Facilities) Act 2017 which allows for the existence of Supervised Injecting Facilities in Ireland.
Funding has been allocated to support the implementation of a Pilot Supervised Injecting Facility in Dublin.
And…
On 25th August 2017 the HSE published an invitation to tender for the Pilot Supervised Injecting Facility in Dublin.

3. Know your case
Statement of intent
Evidence
Position paper
Legal opinion

4. Know your stakeholders Community Commercial interests Policing

5. Engage with the media
Engage frequently
Engage widely
Make your own news

6. You can’t do it all on your own
These are just some of the people that have played their part…

7. You can’t do it all on your own
We are attempting to do something that has not been done before, and we’ve met hurdles
We found a way to have legislation drafted
We couldn’t bring it to Cabinet

8. Take home messages:
Establish the evidence for your proposed change.
Speak to the self-interest of the various stakeholders.
Find common ground with your detractors.
Engage with the media and promote your goal at every opportunity.

9. Timeline 20th Jan 12 SIF in ALDP Strat plan Oct 13
Legal opinion sought
Jun 14
VAS sets up drafting cttee
May 15
Draft bill passed to Govt
Dec 15
Cabinet agree to legislate
March 17
Bill passed by Lower House
16th May 17
Bill enacted by President of Ireland
Feb 17
Bill introduced to lower house
10th May 17
Bill passed by Upper House
Late 2017
Tender and licencing processes

10. Contact:
Twitter:
Tony Duffin - CEO
@AnaLiffey
Ana Liffey Drug Project,
@TonyDuffin
48 Middle Abbey Street,
#SaferFromHarm
Dublin 1
Tel:
Mobile: