An Garda Síochána will implement the Health Referral Scheme from 1st September 2026
An Garda Síochána will implement the Health Referral Scheme (HRS) at midnight on 1st September 2026. The scheme provides an alternative response to persons over the age of 18 found in possession of a small quantity of controlled drugs for personal use. This is an appeal and update regarding the implementation of a new policy. The scheme allows Gardaí to refer first-time offenders to the HSE for rehabilitation and treatment instead of prosecution. The scheme comes into effect on 1st September 2026 and is a pilot programme developed by the Department of Health and the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, in partnership with the HSE and An Garda Síochána.
Read the full story at An Garda Síochána →localnews.ie is an index — every story links back to its source.
Something thin or off here?Flag this story for a closer look.