Key points:

This rapid expert review (RER) does not constitute a formal evaluation of the Irish National Drug Strategy (INDS).

· The purpose of this exercise is to place the INDS in context and provide input for consideration by the group tasked with the development of the next strategy. The RER represents the panel’s opinion on what appear to be top level issues or questions that merit attention.

· Although the RER canvassed a broad set of opinions and reviewed documentary evidence to inform their deliberations, there are obvious limitations to what can be accomplished within such a short time period. These limitations should be born in mind when reflecting on the findings presented here.

· Despite the limitations a number of key issues emerged that in the review panel’s opinion represent clear areas for consideration in the development of the new strategy. These are presented below and some possible options for addressing these issues are also explored.