Drug policy needed on the Island 

John Moores Report to be debated in Tynwald

The 'ease of access' to the Isle of Man and perceptions of relatively less effective border security operations are some of the reasons why the Island is seen as an easy target for drug dealers. 

That's one of the findings made in the Liverpool John Moores University Report - that will go before Tynwald members on Tuesday (21 November). 

It looks at informing policy to minimise the harms associated with drug use in the Isle of Man. 

In December 2020, Tynwald commissioned the John Moores University to undertake a review on the harms caused by drugs here and to provide an overview of the drugs situation here, understand the public view and also inform on development of a drugs policy.

In August last year the review began and concluded in July this year. 

"Concerns about drug-related crime have been a major theme of successive Chief Constable annual reports" - report 

Speaking to various departments and stakeholders as well as Manx residents, researchers found there's been increasing concerns of exploitation of vulnerable young people and adults, as well as crime related to the drug markets.

They also found illegal substances are more expensive on the Island compared to England due to its geography. 

According to a lifestyle survey in the report cannabis is the most used drug at 30.9 percent with cocaine and ecstasy second and third at 10.1 percent and 8.6 percent respectively. 

The 186-page document does not make specific recommendations but provides a range of options for government to consider when making policy.

Justice Minister Jane Poole-Wilson says she plans to return to Tynwald in April 2024 with policy options: 

One person that will be keeping a close eye on the developments of the policy is Ray Lakeman - who has campaigned for the legalisation of drugs after loosing his sons to drug use. 

Having read the 'comprehensive report' he told Manx Radio the policy suggestions are feasible but would require government funds. 

He believes decriminalising cannabis will help in the fight against the drug.

"Until we decriminalise it we wont stop the criminals, we need to accept that people are going to use drugs but hopefully if we take some of these other options and not criminalise users than the police will have more time to go after the criminals." - Ray Lakeman

He added we have to accept there's a market and there's always going to be someone prepared to supply it: 

The report, which you can find HERE, will be debated on Tuesday and you can listen live on Manx Radio's AM 1368 frequency, on DAB and Manx Radio.com.