Sinn Féin’s Martina Anderson says the ‘trendy’ image of cocaine masks the problem of the drug.

“Cocaine has become the drug of choice amongst party goers and weekend revellers and worryingly cocaine has retained an image of sophistication and trendiness among many of those who use it. Despite the wealth of contrary evidence, many users regard it as harmless and socially acceptable. Its use has now crossed all class barriers although communities with a history of deprivation and substance abuse are, as ever, worst hit

“In reality, cocaine-related deaths are on the increase. Cocaine is addictive and it is particularly dangerous when mixed with other drugs, such as alcohol and has implications for the users’ health, mental wellbeing and financial state. Regular cocaine use has been linked with suicide. There is an urgent need for early intervention in terms of education to dismiss this myth that cocaine is somehow safe and socially acceptable. It is not - it is deadly,” she said.

As well as the damage to health caused by cocaine use, Ms Anderson also claimed levels of debt are rising because of drug addiction. “Cocaine has also been linked with rising levels of indebtedness amongst users and amongst their families, who may try to bail them out of trouble. This can put whole families under pressure from loan sharks and at risk from ruthless drug dealers.

“The cocaine myth must be consciously challenged through the formal education system, through youth services and by community role models in an age appropriate way to ensure that young people are fully aware of the risks associated with cocaine and, in particular, with regular or poly-drug use,” she said.