Merchants Quay Ireland is experiencing a rise in demand for its needle exchange and drug treatment services in the Midlands.

The organisation - which operates the Open Door centre for drug users in Athlone - reported a total of 1,415 visits for drugs and crisis services in the town last year. An average of 44 people needed these services each month.

Merchants Quay Ireland's annual review of 2011, which was launched today (Friday) indicates that the drugs crisis in the Midlands is growing.

While there was a slight decrease in the uptake of its Dublin needle exchange service last year, the demand for its needle exchange and drug treatment services has been rising in the Midlands.

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