An Oireachtas committee is expected to call for the establishment of drug treatment courts across the State following rising concern over the drugs problem outside Dublin.
Drug courts aim to provide an alternative to prison for people found guilty of non-violent crime linked to their drug addiction.
Latest official figures show the drug problem is worsening outside Dublin. The number of heroin users seeking treatment outside the capital has increased more than four-fold, while use of cannabis has trebled, according to the Health Research Board.
Fianna Fáil TD Dr Jimmy Devins, vice-chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Health, said he will press for the courts to be expanded when the Dáil resumes sitting later this month.
"The pilot court in Dublin has shown considerable promise in helping to break the detrimental cycle of addiction, criminal behaviour and jail for certain drug offenders. Expanding the programme would show how we can work together - government, communities and individuals - to reduce crime by dealing with its root causes," Dr Devins said.
A drug court was first established in the Dublin area in 2001. Each offender must attend the court at least once a week for a review of their progress through stabilisation, counselling, support, training and assessment.
The scheme was modelled on drug courts in the US, Canada and Australia, which have helped reduce drug-related crime.
Dr Devins said: "Emphasising treatment rather than incarceration, drug treatment courts can help reduce the tremendous burden of substance abuse and its related health, social and economic costs."
He added: "When the Oireachtas Committee sits again, I will raise the need for a nationwide system of drug treatment courts and will press the Minister for Health, Ms Harney, to discuss the urgent need for them."
