The increase in the detection of cocaine by Mayo Gardaí over the past year is concerning considering that nightclubs and pubs have been closed.

That's according to Independent councillor Christy Hyland, who says the 75% increase in the detection of drugs was alarming.

The Westport-based cllr was told by Mayo Garda Chief Superintendent Tony Healy that the substance is being used in the home, at the Joint Policing Committee yesterday.

Cocaine has taken over as cannabis as the drug of prevalence in county Mayo over the past 12 months, with almost twice as much of the substance being discovered

The Chairman of the West Mayo Municipal District says that more work needs to be done on getting the message to young people not to partake in the use of illegal drugs.

Cllr Hyland told Midwest News that those who buy drugs are contributing to gangland crime.