The level of intimidation and violence being experienced by people trapped in drug related debt is on the rise
Some families across Cork have lost their life savings and in some instances their homes as they struggle to help pay off a loved one's drug debt
Garda figures show that nationally 500 cases of drug related intimidation crimes were reported last year
Speaking on the Neil Prendeville Show Sinn Fein's Thomas Gould says it's tragic for the families involved
"I know of three families who have lost their sons tragically through suicide as a result of intimidation. The problem for the Gardai is that families don't come to them. But this Christmas and New Year for those families this has been traumatising and probably heart breaking that they have lost loved ones"
