Three organisations providing rehabilitation programmes to drug addicts have each received €15,000, with money collected from fines imposed by local tribunals in minor drug-related offences.

Government agency Sedqa, together with Caritas and Oasi were each handed funds from the Local Enforcement System Agency. 

The donation was presented during a ceremony marking two years since drug laws were reformed, allowing local tribunals to hear cases of simple drug possession, with those found guilty fined.

Justice Minister Owen Bonnici said the aim of the reform was to offer rehabilitation rather than sending drug addicts behind bars.

READ: Drug use is reaching 'a whole new level'

In total, 1,045 cases have been heard between September 2015 and the end of last month, involving 808 Maltese nationals and 176 foreigners. Of there, there were 32 relapsers, who were referred to the drug rehabilitation board. These resulted in €80,000 in fines, of which €46,000 have been paid. The discrepancy is due to the fact that the law allows for staggered payments.