Illegal drug use 'is in decline'

Heroin is the most frequently reported drug

The use of illegal drugs has fallen in Northern Ireland, latest figures suggest.

The number of young adults using illegal drugs has dropped from 43% in 2001 to 36% in 2005.

The findings are included in the latest Northern Ireland Crime Survey Bulletin published by the NIO.

Fewer people are presenting for treatment for drug problems, according to the latest figures from the Department of Health.

However, according to the latest Drug Misuse Database, 237 people presented themselves for help with heroin addiction - an annual increase of 40%.

More than 125 other people presented themselves for a problem with cocaine - almost twice the number who sought help the year before.

The Northern Ireland Crime Survey Bulletin said 26% of respondents reported having used at least one type of illicit drug at some time in their lives, with cannabis the most commonly used drug.

NIO minister David Hanson welcomed the figures contained in the bulletin.

"The use of illegal drugs can lead young people down a very dangerous path that can end in a life of dependency and misery.

"I am encouraged to see that the number of young adults who have used illegal drugs has come down from 43% in 2001 to 36% in 2005.

"The government has been working with a range of statutory, voluntary and community organisations to raise awareness and improve the information and educational materials available to young people about the dangers of illegal drugs and today's findings suggest that the message is getting through."