This paper provides an overview of research data on the nexus between drugs and crime in Ireland. The author outlines the type of information available from official statistics in this area, including data on drug seizures, drug-related charges and convictions and imprisonment. He argues that there are two important strands of research evidence, which unequivocally show that official criminal justice statistics provide a misleading picture of the Irish drugs-related crime problem. Studies of prison populations shows the highest level of prevalence is amongst offenders and demonstrate the inexorable link between drug use and crime. The research also shows that criminal justice statistics also exaggerate the relative importance of cannabis, particularly in contrast to heroin.