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This took place across Northern Ireland during 1994 and 1995, when 2,194 people aged between 16 and 59 were interviewed. The survey sought to find out from individuals their experience and knowledge of a range of drugs.¹

Main findings

Experience of drugs

Seventeen percent of respondents reported the lifetime use of illicit drugs - that is to say they had used drugs at least once in their lifetime. Of the sample, 20% of males and 13% of females reported such use.

Reported use declined with age. Under 25s were most likely to admit to having taken drugs, followed by 25-44 year olds and then 45-59 year olds.

Percentage of males/females who admitted to taking drugs, by age.

The most commonly used drug was cannabis (12% of all respondents reporting its use). Four percent of males and 2% of females reported the use of solvents, glues or aerosols.

Of those who reported ever using an illicit drug, approximately 40% reported the use of such drugs within the 12 months prior to the survey.

Knowledge of drugs

The best known substances were cannabis, cocaine, heroin, LSD and Ecstasy.

Reference

1. Boyle M, and Morgan S. Drugs in Northern Ireland - Some recent survey findings. NIO statistics and Research Branch, 1997.